WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) President and CEO Liz Schrayer released the following statement on the passing of Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA):

The USGLC joins California and the nation in mourning the loss of Senator Dianne Feinstein, a trailblazing leader who broke barriers and used her platform to not only champion America’s engagement on the global stage but also to advance our civilian toolkit as critical to our national security, economic prosperity, and values.

A longtime champion of America’s diplomacy and development programs, the late Senator Feinstein worked consistently across the aisle to advocate for a robust International Affairs Budget, serving as one of the first Senators to spearhead bipartisan letters in support investments in development and diplomacy affirming, “the International Affairs Budget is critical to our national security interests, the promotion of the humanitarian values America holds dear and for creating economic prosperity at home and abroad.” Her legacy of leadership was profoundly impactful, setting the stage for decades of bipartisan support.

As the first woman elected as Senator from California, Sen. Feinstein was committed to ensuring more opportunity for women across the globe. A stalwart on the Senate Appropriations and Intelligence Committees, Sen. Feinstein advocated the importance of development in creating a safer world, saying, “As we become more interconnected, it is crucial that the rights of women are recognized by all countries as fundamental human rights because countries which value women’s rights are more stable, freer, and more prosperous.”

The USGLC community is truly grateful for Senator Feinstein’s lifetime of service to our country and support to our shared mission, and we send our thoughts and prayers to her entire family.