Butler Makes History With Senate Appointment
Governor Gavin Newsom in 2023 appointed Laphonza Butler to fill the vacant Senate seat left by the late Senator Dianne Feinstein. With her swearing-in on October 3rd, Butler made history in multiple regards.
As the first openly lesbian Black woman elected to Congress, Butler shattered barriers. She has provided much-needed representation as an LGBTQ woman of color serving California in the Senate. Additionally, Butler now stands as only the third Black woman to ever serve as a Senator.
Along with barrier-breaking identities, Butler also carries over a decade of experience as an advocate and leader. She formerly served as president of SEIU Local 2015, California’s largest union. Her work there focused heavily on raising the minimum wage.
From California Roots to National Recognition
Although currently residing in Maryland, Butler has deep ties to California. She previously served on the University of California system’s governing board. Butler also owns property in-state and intends to re-register as a California voter.
Professionally, Butler has established herself nationally as a powerful Democratic strategist. She held an instrumental advisory role for Vice President Kamala Harris’ 2020 presidential campaign. This position further prepared her for the political sphere she now serves in as Senator.
Most recently Butler broke another glass ceiling as the first Black woman president of EMILY’s List. The national PAC has helped elect numerous pro-choice Democratic women over the years. After stepping into Congress, Butler decided to step down from her role at EMILY’s List.
An Uncertain Road Ahead
While historic and groundbreaking, Butler’s appointment came with uncertainty regarding her long-term future in Feinstein’s seat. Governor Newsom previously indicated he intended to appoint someone in a caretaker capacity, not as a contender for the 2024 election.
However, in the months since the appointment was announced, circumstances seem to have changed. When asked about running for a full Senate term, Butler told reporters she has yet to decide. With the deadline for election paperwork still months away, she appears to still be weighing her options.
The road towards a 2024 bid seems rife with competition for Butler if she desires to continue serving California as Senator. Several prominent House Democrats have already announced their candidacy, including Katie Porter, Adam Schiff, and Barbara Lee. The Congressional Black Caucus previously advocated for Governor Newsom to appoint Rep. Lee to the seat initially.
While not yet an official candidate, Butler’s historic appointment positions her uniquely in the landscape of politicians vying to represent the state come 2024.
