Longest-serving Female Senator and U.S. Political Pioneer, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Passes Away at 90

Last updated Sep 29, 2023

TL/DR –

Dianne Feinstein, a Democratic senator from California, passed away at the age of 90. Feinstein, known for her gun control advocacy, was the oldest member of the Senate, the longest-serving female senator, and the longest-serving senator from California. Her death was confirmed by her office, and she is remembered for making significant contributions to the nation and her home state.

Gun Control Advocate and Longest-Serving Female Senator Dianne Feinstein Passes Away

Senator Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., a vocal advocate of gun control measures, known for seeking bipartisan solutions during her three-decade Senate career, has passed away at the age of 90, her office confirmed.

“Senator Feinstein was a force of nature, always advocating for justice, and willing to work with anyone to better the lives of Californians and our nation,” James Sauls, her chief of staff, commented.

Feinstein, the oldest member of the Senate, longest-serving woman and longest-serving senator from California, had previously announced her intention to retire in 2024.

President Joe Biden lauded Feinstein’s contributions to national security, environmental protection, and civil liberties. “Dianne made history in so many ways, and our country will benefit from her legacy for generations.”

On the Senate floor, her colleagues paid tribute to Feinstein, with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer applauding her for her strength, bravery and outstanding integrity.

Feinstein was a consistent advocate for stricter gun control measures, notably championing the assault weapons ban signed into law by then-President Bill Clinton in 1994. As chairwoman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, she led a review of the CIA’s post-9/11 detention and interrogation program, resulting in legislation banning torture methods.

Feinstein was known for her attempts to work constructively with Republicans. Her controversial embrace of Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., during 2020 Supreme Court nominee Amy Coney Barrett’s confirmation hearings, sparked calls for her to step down as the top Democrat on the panel.

While she was a supporter of Senate traditions, Feinstein indicated she might be open to filibuster reform if Democrats were unable to pass key legislative components including voting rights reforms, gun control and reauthorization of the landmark Violence Against Women Act.

In response to calls for retirement and concerns about her fitness to serve, Feinstein pushed back, expressing her commitment to fulfilling her duties to Californians.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to appoint a temporary successor for Feinstein’s seat, previously stating that he wouldn’t select any of the 2024 candidates to avoid bias.

Feinstein’s political career ascended swiftly following the assassinations of San Francisco Mayor George Moscone and city Supervisor Harvey Milk. As acting mayor, she became the first woman elected as San Francisco’s mayor.

Feinstein is survived by her daughter, San Francisco County Superior Court Judge Katherine Feinstein, her son-in-law Rick Mariano, and her granddaughter Eileen Feinstein Mariano.