Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the longest serving senator from California, has died at the age of 90, her office confirmed on Friday.
“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,” her chief of staff, James Sauls, said in a statement.
“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.”
Feinstein was the oldest member of the Senate. She has served as California’s senator since 1992, thus making her the longest serving senator from the state.
Feinstein had plan to retire from the Senate at the end of her term in 2025 due to her constant health struggles.
Her death means California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) must select a replacement to complete the rest of her term.
Three Democrats Reps. Katie Porter, Adam Schiff and Barbara Lee are all running for the seat.
