Condolences flood in after Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s passing.
Reactions Pour In Following the Passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein
Senators and other officials expressed their heartfelt condolences on September 29 after the death of the esteemed Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), who passed away at the age of 90.
Ms. Feinstein, who served in the Senate since 1992 and held previous positions as the mayor of San Francisco and president of the city’s board of supervisors, passed away at her home in Washington on September 28, according to a statement by her chief of staff, James Sauls.
On the Senate floor, where a vase of flowers adorned the desk where Ms. Feinstein sat, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) paid tribute to her, describing her as “one of the most amazing people who ever graced the Senate, who ever graced the country.”
“She possessed an extraordinary combination of qualities that made her an exceptional human being. She was intelligent, strong, courageous, and compassionate. But perhaps her most remarkable trait was her unwavering integrity,” said Schumer.
Also paying tribute on the Senate floor, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) referred to Ms. Feinstein as a friend and praised her effectiveness at every level on her path to the Senate.
President Joe Biden hailed Ms. Feinstein as “a pioneering American,” “a true trailblazer,” and “a cherished friend.”
“Dianne was often the only woman in the room, and she served as a role model for countless Americans. She took her responsibility seriously and mentored numerous public servants, many of whom now serve in my administration,” said President Biden.
“She had a profound impact on younger female leaders, opening doors for them generously,” he continued. “Dianne was tough, sharp, always prepared, and never held back, but she was also a kind and loyal friend, and that is what Jill and I will miss the most.”
Former Senator and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton described Ms. Feinstein as not only a friend but also “a true trailblazer” who sought common ground and possessed both fearlessness and openness.
Alongside Schumer and McConnell, other senators expressed their condolences for the loss of Ms. Feinstein.
“I’ve said it before: you can’t tell the story of CA—or American politics—without the trailblazing career of Senator Dianne Feinstein. A champion, an icon, and most importantly, a friend—Dianne will be dearly missed. Angela and I are keeping the Feinstein family in our prayers,” wrote Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) on X.
“Ann and I are heartbroken by the loss of Sen. Dianne Feinstein,” wrote Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) on X. “Dianne’s more than 30 years in the Senate reflect a life of service to her state of California and our nation. We are praying for her family, staff, and all who knew and loved her.”
“Senator Dianne Feinstein’s legacy in the Senate is marked by determination, a love for California, and a willingness to reach across the aisle to make deals,” wrote Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Ks.) on X. “Dianne’s decades of service should not be defined solely by the end or the beginning of her career, but by a lifetime of service and fearless leadership in the face of difficulties and adversity.”
“Dianne Feinstein lived a life of service, blazing a path for women in the Senate and inspiring girls across our nation,” wrote Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) on X. “In the face of tragedy and tribulations throughout her career, she was fearless. Our prayers are with her loved ones.”
Members of the House of Representatives also shared their thoughts.
“Senator Feinstein broke barriers and paved the way for women,” said House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). “Her career, by any measure, was historic.”
“This is a sad day for California and the nation,” wrote Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) on X. ”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.”
“I’m saddened by the loss of Senator Dianne Feinstein,” wrote Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) on X. “We regularly worked together to represent our constituents’ needs and well-being. From her early roots as the 1951 Rodeo Queen at Cow Palace, it’s unlikely that we will ever see another like her in California politics.”
Governor Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) will appoint Ms. Feinstein’s successor. Currently, the Democrats maintain control of the Senate with a 50–49 majority. Governor Newsom has expressed his intention to appoint a black woman, with California Secretary of State Shirley Weber being the likely choice. Governor Newsom plans to appoint an interim successor and does not want to show favoritism in the 2024 primary, which includes Ms. Lee, who is also black.
How did Sen. Susan Collins describe Sen. Dianne Feinstein’s dedication and service to her constituents?
Ss to work across party lines,” said Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine). “She was a dedicated public servant who always put the needs of her constituents first. My thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Outside of the Senate, condolences also poured in from various officials and organizations. California Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his deep sadness, calling Ms. Feinstein ”a giant” and praising her for her tireless advocacy and leadership.
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) tweeted, “We mourn the loss of Senator Dianne Feinstein, a champion for civil rights and civil liberties. Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
The passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein is undoubtedly a significant loss for the political landscape of California and the nation at large. Her dedication, integrity, and trailblazing spirit left a lasting impact on countless individuals and future leaders. As the nation mourns her loss, her legacy will continue to serve as an inspiration for generations to come.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
