California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) paid tribute to Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) who passed away on Friday at the age of 90.
In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Newsom described Feinstein as having been a “powerful, trailblazing” senator. Feinstein had been the oldest sitting lawmaker in Congress.
“Dianne Feinstein was many things – a powerful, trailblazing U.S. Senator; an early voice for gun control; a leader in times of tragedy and chaos,” Newsom wrote. “But to me, she was a dear friend, a lifelong mentor, and a role model not only for me, but to my wife and daughters for what a powerful, effective leader looks like.”
Dianne Feinstein was many things — a powerful, trailblazing U.S. Senator; an early voice for gun control; a leader in times of tragedy and chaos. But to me, she was a dear friend, a lifelong mentor, and a role model not only for me, but to my wife and daughters for what a…
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 29, 2023
“She was a political giant, whose tenacity was matched by her grace,” Newsom continued. “She broke down barriers and glass ceilings, but never lost her belief in the spirit of political cooperation.”
Feinstein had been struggling with her health for many months. In August, she was hospitalized after falling at her home. Prior to this incident, Feinstein had named her daughter as her power of attorney.
“Every race she won, she made history, but her story wasn’t just about being the first woman in a particular political office, it was what she did for California, and for America, with that power once she earned it. That’s what she should be remembered for,” Newsom continued.
Feinstein had previously announced she would not be seeking reelection in 2024.
