Dianne Feinstein, the most tenured senator from California, died at the age of 90. She reportedly had several health problems lately.

She was a prominent figure in American politics who had previously expressed a wish to step down from her position at the conclusion of her term. Her exact cause of death has not yet been established.

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Additionally, it makes room for California in the United States Senate. Feinstein, who was 90 years old when she died, had around 15 months left in her tenure. 

According to California law, Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom has sole discretion to designate a candidate for the position. This appointment will serve until the next election, when voters will select a senator to fill the vacancy.

Earlier this month, on NBC’s “Meet the Press,” Governor Newsom restated his pledge to choose a Black woman to follow Feinstein while expressing his hope that such a choice would never be required. He also made it clear, though, that he would not support one of the Democratic candidates running for Feinstein’s seat in the 2024 race because he believed doing so would be “completely unfair to the Democrats that have worked their tails off.” 

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This attitude appears to exclude contenders like Reps. Barbara Lee, Adam Schiff, and Katie Porter, among others, joined the race following Feinstein’s earlier statement that she would not run for re-election.

However, after the tragic news of Feinstein’s death, the governor is expected to make some tough calls for the position. Newsom while condoling Feinstein’s death said, “Dianne Feinstein was many things — a powerful, trailblazing U.S. Senator; an early voice for gun control; a leader in times of tragedy and chaos.:

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Although the potential successor was not mentioned by Governor Newsom in his remarks, the possibility of Feinstein dying in office has long been a concern.

Shirley Weber, a 75-year-old Black woman who previously served in the California State Assembly, is one potential replacement for Feinstein.