Feinstein unlikely to run for governor, blog says

The Cal Buzz blog -- run by California journalists Jerry Roberts and Phil Trounstine -- writes that Sen. Dianne Feinstein will not run for governor of California for three reasons -- policy, politics and personal.

Policy: As chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence and of the Subcommittee on Interior and Environment of Appropriations, Feinstein is better positioned, not only to pursue her passion for national security and foreign policy, but also her concern over big environmental issues such as water policy.

Politics: Feinstein's Senate votes on Iraq, the Supreme Court, the Patriot Act and more would open her to scathing attacks from the netroots left. And though she'd probably survive those, the top two Republican contenders, Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner and former EBay Chief Executive Meg Whitman, both are wealthy, self-financed and prepared to savage her.

Personal: At 75, Feinstein already is older than the Golden Gate Bridge, the other iconic image of her hometown. Being one of 100 members of America's most exclusive club suits the elite world view and atmosphere she finds most comfortable.