What's happened
Senator Dianne Feinstein, a trailblazing figure in US politics, has died at the age of 90, leaving a vacant Senate seat in California.
Why it matters
Feinstein's death creates a vacancy in the Senate at a critical time, with Democrats holding a narrow majority. The appointment of her replacement will have significant political implications and could impact the balance of power in the Senate.
What the papers say
The New York Times emphasizes the political tensions and complexities surrounding the appointment of Feinstein's replacement, while The Guardian focuses on her legacy as a trailblazer for women in American politics. The Independent and AP News provide detailed accounts of Feinstein's career and accomplishments, highlighting her impact on civil rights, gun reform, and environmental issues.
How we got here
Feinstein's political career began in San Francisco, where she became the city's first female mayor after a tragic double assassination. She later won a US Senate race in 1992, becoming one of California's first two female senators.
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