Biden orders flags flown at half-staff to honor Feinstein

President Joe Biden ordered flags across the nation to be flown at half-staff in honor of Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) following her death.

“As a mark of respect for the memory of Senator Dianne Feinstein, by the authority vested in me as President of the United States by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, on the day of interment,” Biden said in a proclamation. 

“I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations,” Biden’s proclamation continued.

Feinstein died Thursday at her home in Washington, D.C., according to her chief of staff, James Sauls. She was considered a trailblazer for women in American politics by many.

“Her passing is a great loss for so many, from those who loved and cared for her to the people of California that she dedicated her life to serving,” Sauls’s statement read.

Feinstein achieved many firsts for women in public office, including becoming the first female mayor of San Francisco and the first woman senator from California. She made her last vote Thursday morning. 

In a statement, Biden called Feinstein a “pioneering American.” He said she “made her mark on everything from national security to the environment to protecting civil liberties.” 

“Often the only woman in the room, Dianne was a role model for so many Americans — a job she took seriously by mentoring countless public servants, many of whom now serve in my Administration. She had an immense impact on younger female leaders for whom she generously opened doors,” Biden said.

“Dianne was tough, sharp, always prepared, and never pulled a punch, but she was also a kind and loyal friend, and that’s what Jill and I will miss the most,” Biden continued.