California Governor Gavin Newsom’s selection for the replacement of the late Democratic Senator Diane Feinstein has sparked intrigue due to revelations that the chosen candidate had recently lived in Maryland with her family.

Late on Sunday evening, the governor’s office revealed that Laphonza Butler, the president of EMILY’s List, an organization dedicated to supporting women who advocate for abortion rights in public office, had been chosen to complete the remainder of the late senator’s term.

Senator Feinstein, aged 90, had passed away on Thursday after a period of declining health, Newsweek reported.

“A trusted adviser to [Vice President Kamala] Harris and leader of the nation’s largest organization dedicated to electing women, Butler will make history as the first Black lesbian to openly serve in Congress,” Newsom’s office said.

Under California law, the governor has the authority to appoint a senator until the upcoming election, scheduled for 2024.

Notably, Butler has prior experience in California, having been involved in the presidential campaigns of both Kamala Harris and Hillary Clinton.

Written by staff