A lot of them can't step down. They have debts that to repay that require them to stay in that position (both financial debts, and political ones), or family members who can only continue doing what they are doing if they stay in that position. Say a small family business that consistently gets works, but only to curry favor with the Senator. They quit, their grandchildren's business takes a dive, so the family begs them to stay on.
In Feinstein's case, its pretty clear she was forced to stay on by her party while they made arrangements for her successor, there is a lot of people and factions in California who want her seat in the Democratic party.
Also the competency crisis is real, alot of them dont have successors. Often by their own actions in an attempt to consolidate power, but they've left the field barren now thats its time for them to leave.
The way the committee system works in congress, the more seniority you rack up the more influence you carry. The democrats did not want to lose those positions, so she was under a lot of pressure to remain in office as long as possible.
The desire for power doesn't disappear at a certain age. More importantly, what do you think would encourage someone with power who covets and/or has it to part with it gracefully?
afaik she asked to be elected, did not need to part with anything (i mean she did not have property rights to the seat, if i m not mistaken senators do get elected)
It's not just politicians. There are loads of incredibly wealthy people working themselves to death because they are just addicted to it. As much as it was a work of fiction, I think Succession really captured the mentality.
