Two weeks ago, the United States lost a trailblazer in politics – Senator Dianne Feinstein.
Born in San Francisco in 1933, Dianne defied odds and tradition from the beginning, attending Stanford University and pursuing a future in politics.
In 1969, Dianne won a seat on the San Francisco County Board of Supervisors and was the board’s first female president.
In 1978, Dianne assumed the role of Mayor of San Francisco after the murder of then – Mayor George Moscone (MOSS-CONE-KNEE) and civil rights icon, Harvey Milk.
In 1979, she was officially elected as Mayor, and for nearly 10 years, worked to improve city services and further civil rights.
Throughout her tenure, Dianne earned much respect and public support after leading the City through difficult times, following the assassinations.
In November 1992, Dianne was elected to the U.S. Senate in a special election, becoming California’s first female senator.
During the next 30 years, Dianne dedicated her life to public service, authoring and overseeing countless bills and fighting for national security, environmental and natural resources, crime and justice and health care.
I count Dianne not only as a colleague, but as a friend.
I was fortunate to have the opportunity to work closely with her for decades – to protect our community and open spaces from the proposed Cemex sand and gravel mine in Soledad Canyon.
For years, we led the crucial fight against Cemex together, putting forth legislation to prevent the mega-mine.
Dianne also helped the City pass legislation that was critical in halting the creation of a landfill in Elsmere Canyon.
Not only did she aid the City’s efforts in preserving our open spaces and greenbelt that surrounds Santa Clarita, but she also paved the way for women in politics.
Dianne became the first woman to serve on the Senate Judiciary Committee and later the first woman to chair the Senate Intelligence Committee.
She was a wonderful friend and mentor, and I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with her for so many years.
Tonight, we adjourn in memory of Senator Dianne Feinstein and our thoughts and prayers are with her family and colleagues during this difficult time.