Washington, DC – U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today applauded Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the California Legislature for legislation, signed into law today, that moves the state’s presidential primary to February.

Moving California’s presidential primary to February 5 means that only four states – Iowa, New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada – will hold their primary or caucus before California does.

“With this legislation, California returns to its rightful place as a leader in presidential politics,” Senator Feinstein said.

“California is the largest state in the nation and has 55 electoral votes – the most of any state. It is the most ethnically diverse state in the nation and a leader in many fields.”

“But because of the front-loaded presidential primaries, California hasn’t had a voice in the primary process.”

“This legislation changes that. Today’s action in Sacramento sends a clear signal – California matters. Now, millions of California voters will have a strong voice in selecting presidential nominees.”

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