Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) has died at the age of 90, Feinstein’s chief of staff confirmed.
The California Democrat was the oldest member of the U.S. Senate and the longest-serving senator from her state.
“Sadly, Senator Feinstein passed away last night at her home in Washington, D.C. Her passing is a great loss for so many, from those who loved and cared for her to the people of California that she dedicated her life to serving,” James Sauls, chief of staff to Feinstein, said in a statement. “Senator Feinstein never backed away from a fight for what was just and right. At the same time, she was always willing to work with anyone, even those she disagreed with, if it meant bettering the lives of Californians or the betterment of our nation.”
“There are few women who can be called senator, chairman, mayor, wife, mom and grandmother. Senator Feinstein was a force of nature who made an incredible impact on our country and her home state,” Sauls’ statement continued. “She left a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary. There is much to say about who she was and what she did, but for now, we are going to grieve the passing of our beloved boss, mentor and friend.”
Feinstein’s death comes months after she announced plans to retire at the end of 2024 after working more than 50 years in public office.
“I am announcing today I will not run for reelection in 2024 but intend to accomplish as much for California as I can through the end of next year when my term ends,” Feinstein said in a statement earlier this year.
President Joe Biden released a statement on the senator’s passing, calling Feinstein “a pioneering American. A true trailblazer. And for Jill and me, a cherished friend.”
“Often the only woman in the room, Dianne was a role model for so many Americans – a job she took seriously by mentoring countless public servants, many of whom now serve in my Administration. She had an immense impact on younger female leaders for whom she generously opened doors. Dianne was tough, sharp, always prepared, and never pulled a punch, but she was also a kind and loyal friend, and that’s what Jill and I will miss the most,” the president’s statement read.
This was a breaking news story. The details were periodically updated as more information became available.
