Dianne Feinstein, the longest-serving female senator in history, has died at age 90.

Dianne Feinstein was a democratic senator from 1992 until her death on Sept. 29, 2023. Feinstein was largely known for her advocacy in women’s rights, gun control, LGBTQ+ rights, environmental protection, and healthcare. Being the first woman to have chaired the Senate Rules Committee and the Senate Intelligence Committee as well as being the first woman to have presided over a U.S. presidential inauguration, Feinstein is regarded as one of the most impactful women in the nation. 

   During her political career, Feinstein made many powerful accomplishments for the nation. Feinstein fought to combat the effects of climate change through leading an Energy Independence and Security Act to reduce automotive greenhouse gas emissions. Feinstein also partnered with other amendments and motions to cut emissions and battle the ongoing effects of global warming, producing promising results. 

   Feinstein’s work in fighting for healthcare also resulted in impact, as she backed so many important progressive movements. There are many, but the most important ones include the Affordable Care Act, expanding the Children’s Health Insurance Program, regulating tobacco as a drug, and favoring the creation of a public option in order to achieve universal healthcare.

   Vice President Kamala Harris recognized Feinstein as “one of the greatest public servants that California and our nation has ever known,” in a statement made following the senator’s death. 

   Feinstein died in her home in Washington D.C. after enduring health struggles for months. Feinstein was home and burdened with a case of shingles that eventually led to swelling in the brain. She was also briefly hospitalized in August after a fall, and has declined since then. Feinstein’s legacy in the Senate will always be remembered. The impact she had on pressing issues will certainly be lasting.