Feinstein’s Trailblazing Career: McCarthy’s Memorable Reflection

Moments ago, the flags over the Capitol were lowered in memory of Senator Dianne Feinstein. As California’s longest-serving senator, Senator Feinstein broke barriers and blazed a trail for women. Her career was, by any standards, historic. Speaking personally, I worked with the senator for quite some time. Together on many different bills, but the one that I think stands out was our water legislation. It was historic. It was the first time in California history in more than 25 years that we were able to pass water. This was the WIIN Act. And I remember the hours and the nights that we would have to work, to try to work through, and the challenges — we come from different parties. We have different philosophies, but we put our state first. At the same time, Barbara Boxer opposed it. It was one of the last votes of the Senate, had more than 70 votes at the time. And I believe at the end of the day, the trailblazing of the first woman elected mayor, even coming from a different party, inspired women from both sides of the aisle to seek elected office and to have their voices heard. My deepest condolences to her family, her colleagues and to her staff.

Moments ago, the flags over the Capitol were lowered in memory of Senator Dianne Feinstein. As California’s longest-serving senator, Senator Feinstein broke barriers and blazed a trail for women. Her career was, by any standards, historic. Speaking personally, I worked with the senator for quite some time on various bills. However, our water legislation stands out the most. It was a historic moment as we were able to pass water legislation in California for the first time in over 25 years through the WIIN Act. Despite coming from different parties and having different philosophies, we put our state first. It wasn’t without challenges. Barbara Boxer opposed it, but it received more than 70 votes in the Senate. The trailblazing of the first woman elected mayor, even from a different party, inspired women from both sides of the aisle to seek elected office and have their voices heard. My deepest condolences go to her family, colleagues, and staff.