Michigan senators hail late colleague as “extraordinary” and a “trailblazer”

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With today’s unexpected passing of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Michigan’s senior U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow released the follow statement:

“Senator Dianne Feinstein will go down in history as an extraordinary American leader. She was a fierce, courageous advocate on so many important issues, from gun safety, to national security, to protecting the rights of women and members of the LGBTQ+ community.”

Stabenow continued, “She also broke through so many barriers for all of us, becoming the first woman mayor of San Francisco, the first woman elected to represent California in the United States Senate, and the first woman to lead the Senate Intelligence Committee. She was an inspiration to me and so many women who followed her, and most importantly, she was my friend. My heart is with her family and the people of California today.”

Fellow Michigan U.S. Senator Gary Peters also shared his condolences for Senator Feinstein’s passing.

“Dianne Feinstein was a trailblazer, and her life of public service leaves behind a profound legacy. From her time in San Francisco’s City Hall to her decades of service in the U.S. Senate, Dianne spent her career as a fierce advocate who fought to get things done for her constituents and the American people. Her diligence, hard work, and commitment to bipartisanship allowed her to achieve real results, even as she took on some of the toughest issues of the day.”

Peters continued, “As a model and mentor for women in American politics, Dianne opened the door for generations of public servants. Her legislative and political accomplishments are only surpassed by her compassion as a colleague and friend. I am grateful to have served alongside Dianne, and Colleen and I send our deepest condolences to her loved ones during this difficult time.”

Feinstein was 90 years old.