Dianne Feinstein, Longest-Serving Woman in the Senate, Passes Away at 90
Trailblazing Career
Feinstein was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992 during the "Year of the Woman" wave election, becoming the longest-serving woman in Senate history.
Early Leadership
Her political journey began as San Francisco's interim mayor in 1978 after two political assassinations, and she later secured election and reelection as the city's mayor until 1988.
Moderate Governance
As mayor, Feinstein adopted a moderate governing style, winning support from various groups but sometimes clashing with liberal activists on issues like same-sex partnerships and comparable worth legislation.
Bipartisan Roots
Feinstein's political philosophy was influenced by her upbringing in a family with both Democrats and Goldwater Republicans.
National Recognition
In 1984, she gained national attention during the Democratic National Convention and made the shortlist for vice presidential nominee Walter Mondale.
AIDS Crisis Response
Feinstein played a pivotal role in addressing the AIDS epidemic in San Francisco when the federal government largely ignored it. The city spent more on AIDS than the entire federal government at the time.
Senate Career
Feinstein was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1992, advocating for gun control and making history as part of the "Year of the Woman." Her Senate tenure included a notable report on CIA torture practices after the 9/11 attacks.