(CNSNews.com) – Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) said Friday that he doesn’t understand why his call for Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) to resign was “that controversial.”

Feinstein has been sidelined since February with shingles and recently called for her seat on the Senate Judiciary Committee to be temporarily filled while she’s gone so that President Biden’s judicial nominations can move forward.

“I don't understand why this is actually that controversial position or why I’ve taken some heat for it. It’s a pretty simple principal. I don't know any job in this country where you can just not show up, no expectation of returning, and continue to have that job,” Khanna told Fox Business’ “Mornings with Maria.”

“Senator Feinstein has had a distinguished public service career but ultimately she works for the people of California, the largest state, and California deserves a senator who’s going to even be present if the judiciary committee’s voting on judicial nominations,” he said.

When asked whether he wants to run for Feinstein’s Senate seat, the congressman said, “I don't. In fact, I’ve endorsed someone else for her seat, and there’s every likelihood that the governor could appoint someone who’s a caretaker, so it won’t even affect the race. 

“This is honestly making sure that someone there is to vote. I mean Senator Durbin said that the president’s judicial nominations are being held up because Senator Feinstein isn't present, and so, and I respected Feinstein's career. I just hope that she does right thing here,” he said.