Laphonza Butler made history on Tuesday as she was sworn in as the third female Black U.S. senator. This comes after nearly three years without any Black women serving in the Senate. Butler, a former labor leader and head of Emily’s List, was chosen by California Governor Gavin Newsom to fill the seat of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein. The last Black woman to serve in the Senate was Kamala D. Harris before she became vice president. Butler and Harris have a longstanding relationship, and Harris administered the oath of office to Butler.
Butler’s swearing-in brings much-needed diversity to the Senate, and her appointment marks the end of a politically challenging chapter for Newsom. He faced pressure to choose Rep. Barbara Lee from top Black leaders in the country, but ultimately selected Butler without placing any restrictions on her ability to run for a full term. While Butler has yet to make a decision on seeking a full term, her appointment has been well-received by her colleagues in Congress and liberal lobbying groups. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer praised Butler’s background and called the moment historic for California and the entire country.
Labor groups, including the Service Employees International Union, also expressed support for Butler, highlighting her dedication to uniting working people and fighting for economic and racial justice. Butler’s appointment brings a much-needed perspective to the Senate, which has been lacking diversity in recent years.
