DeLauro Statement on Senator Dianne Feinstein

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro released a statement following news that California Senator Dianne Feinstein had passed away.

“I am saddened by the news of the death of Senator Dianne Feinstein. Senator Feinstein was a dedicated public servant and an icon in American politics. Her unwavering commitment to justice, her tireless advocacy for commonsense gun control legislation, and her remarkable ability to bridge division in the Senate made her an inspiration to many, including myself.

“A trailblazer for gun violence prevention, she authored the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban, removing dangerous weapons of war from our communities and saving countless lives. She never faltered in her efforts to pass comprehensive gun control legislation to make our communities safer, and I was proud to stand with her in that fight.

“It was an honor to have been a partner to Senator Feinstein in her fight to improve the lives of working families and middle-class Americans. We fought to secure equal pay for women and united together to move policies that improve public health.

“As the longest-serving woman in the Senate, she broke barriers for women in government. She mentored women working in politics, pushed for legislation that promotes gender equality, and used her platform to encourage more women to seek elected office. She understood the importance of diverse voices in shaping lasting policy that helps the American people—and our nation is better-off because of her decades of public service.

“I am praying for her loved ones and her staff. May she rest in peace.”