SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) -- U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein, a centrist Democrat who served as California’s senior senator since 1992, has died. She was 90.
The senator's office confirmed Feinstein passed away Thursday night at her home in Washington, D.C.
The longtime California senator was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992 after winning a special election and was serving her sixth term at the time of her passing. Feinstein was California’s first woman senator.
Earlier this year, Feinstein announced that she would not seek reelection in 2024. She faced calls to resign as she battled health issues in recent months and was the oldest sitting senator.
In a statement from the senator's office, Chief of Staff James Sauls said, "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." Continuing, "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. She left a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary."
Reactions from around the nation started shortly after reports of Feinstein's passing. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Oakland) said on X, "This is a sad day for California and the nation. Sen. Feinstein was a champion for our state, and served as the voice of a political revolution for women. My profound condolences go out to her family and loved ones."
Florida Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) said, "Senator Feinstein was a political pioneer with a historic career of public service." Former Secretary of State and Senator Hillary Clinton said she would miss Feinstein greatly as a friend and colleague, stating, "She blazed trails for women in politics."
Feinstein, born June 22, 1933, in San Francisco, served as the mayor of SF for three terms from December 1978 to January 1988. During this time, Feinstein faced turmoil, including the assassination of Mayor George Moscone and City Supervisor Harvey Milk. Feinstein then succeeded Moscone as the mayor, serving as the first woman in that position.
Before becoming a U.S. senator, Feinstein unsuccessfully ran for governor of California in 1990.
Feinstein had a storied political career that broke gender barriers as she rose from San Francisco’s City Hall to leadership posts in the U.S. Senate. She played key roles in political battles over issues including reproductive rights and environmental protection, gaining a reputation as a pragmatic centrist.
As a San Francisco native, Feinstein attended and graduated from Stanford University
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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