Laphonza Butler Fills in as First Senator Openly Part of the LGBTQ Community
Laphonza Butler is to fill in for late California Senator Dianne Feinstein. This will make Butler the first open member of the LGBTQ community and the third Black woman serving the Senate.
Laphonza Butler, president of EMILY’s List, has just been named by Governor Gavin Newsom to fill Dianne Feinstein’s senate seat.
I'm proud to announce California's new United States Senator — Laphonza Butler.
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) October 2, 2023
As we mourn the enormous loss of Sen. Feinstein, the very freedoms she fought for — reproductive freedom, equal protection, and safety from gun violence — have never been under greater assault.… pic.twitter.com/SOnbfVPmXj
EMILY’s List works to elect Democratic women in politics. Butler has worked with the organization since 2021, when she became the first Black woman to lead the organization.
The California governor, Gavin Newsom, has the power to appoint a fill-in Senator until the next scheduled statewide election. The next election will take place in November 2024, where voters have the opportunity to elect a new Senator.
Feinstein had been the longest-serving woman in the Senate and had recently passed away last Thursday at age 90. Following her passing, Butler shared a tribute to the late Senator on her social media. Butler named Feinstein “a legendary figure for woman in politics and around the country.”
I'm saddened to hear of the passing of Sen. @DianneFeinstein. Not only was she a titan in the Senate, but a legendary figure for women in politics and around the country. Her legacy and achievements will not be forgotten. My prayers are with her family. She will be deeply missed.
— Laphonza Butler (@LaphonzaB) September 29, 2023
Butler is only the third Black woman in history to serve Senate. Butler is also the first open member of the LGBTQ+ community to represent the California chamber.
Butler has a long professional history in California. Previously, Butler led the largest union in the state, the SEIU Local, back in 2015. Butler currently resides in Maryland, however, she owns a home in California and is set to switch her voter registration.
In the months leading to Feinstein’s passing, Newsom became aware that it was his responsibility to fill her seat, should it become Vacant. In interviews, Newsom told the press that he wanted the seat to be filled by a Black woman. Newsom also made it clear that he would not appoint any of the candidates running to succeed Feinstein come 2024.
Meet Laphonza Butler, the President of EMILY’s List & the replacement of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein in the Senate. A Black woman who has fought so hard for women’s rights & Democrats to be elected up & down the ballot. Bravo, Gavin Newsom, on the PERFECT choice. pic.twitter.com/eV40hIBQyi
— Victor Shi (@Victorshi2020) October 2, 2023
It is unclear at the moment when Butler will be sworn into the Senate. It could, potentially, come as early as Tuesday when the Senate is back in session.
A great choice for California and for the Senate. Congratulations, @LaphonzaB! https://t.co/3o3IpwRynm
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) October 2, 2023
Fellow California senators have commended Butler on her success and history-making status, along with their anticipation to work closely alongside her in the future.
