Trailblazing Senator Dianne Feinstein Remembered at San Francisco Memorial

Feinstein was hailed as a trailblazing politician and 'Diamond of the Senate' at a memorial service outside San Francisco City Hall, where she began her political career. Speakers included President Biden, Vice President Harris and top Congressional Democrats.

As San Francisco's first female mayor, Feinstein led the city through turbulent times like the assassinations of Mayor Moscone and Supervisor Milk. She went on to break barriers in the Senate as its first female Intelligence Committee chair.

In San Francisco, Feinstein tackled issues like saving cable cars and responding to the AIDS crisis. She later championed the 1994 assault weapons ban and investigations into CIA torture.

Even as Feinstein's health declined, she resisted calls to resign from her Senate seat. Supporters said her legacy shouldn't be defined only by her difficult last years in office.

Feinstein inspired generations of women in politics. She showed it was acceptable for women to seek and wield power. The number of female Senators rose from 2 when she was elected in 1992 to 25 at her death.