The esteemed Senator Dianne Feinstein of California has passed away at the age of 90, as confirmed by two sources to NBC News.
Feinstein held the distinction of being the longest-serving female senator and the senator with the longest tenure from California. Earlier this year, she had announced her intention to retire in February, marking the end of her term that was set to conclude at the start of 2025.
Upon Feinstein's announcement of retirement, President Biden expressed his admiration for the senator, stating, "Over the three decades Ive known her, Dianne and her late husband Richard became dear friends to Jill and me. Ive served with more US Senators than just about anyone. I can honestly say that Dianne Feinstein is one of the very best."
Feinstein's demise triggers the Seventeenth Amendment, which "allows state legislatures to empower the governor to appoint a replacement to complete the term or to hold office until a special election can take place." This puts the responsibility of nominating Feinstein's successor on the shoulders of California Governor Gavin Newsom.
President Biden, in a heartfelt statement, described Feinstein as a "pioneering American. A true trailblazer. And for Jill and me, a cherished friend." He further added, "In San Francisco, she showed enormous poise and courage in the wake of tragedy, and became a powerful voice for American values. Serving in the Senate together for more than 15 years, I had a front row seat to what Dianne was able to accomplish."
Biden concluded his tribute by saying, "As we mourn with her daughter Katherine and the Feinstein family, her team in the Senate, and the people of California, we take comfort that Dianne is reunited again with her beloved Richard. May God Bless Dianne Feinstein."
James Sauls, Feinsteins chief of staff, confirmed her passing, stating, "Sadly, Senator Feinstein passed away last night at her home in Washington, DC. 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."
Sauls further added, "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."
As reported by USA Today, Feinstein was active in the Senate on Thursday, casting a vote at 11:45 am. However, she was absent for two votes held later in the afternoon. At 5:21 pm on Thursday, her official account issued a post criticizing Azerbaijan for the expulsion of Christian Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region.
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