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Today in History: Dianne Feinstein becomes San Francisco's first female mayor

12/4/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On December 4, 1978, Dianne Feinstein was sworn in as San Francisco's first female mayor following the assassination of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk by Dan White on November 27. Feinstein, who was the Board of Supervisors president, announced their deaths to the media and stepped into the mayoral role amid a turbulent political climate.

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Story summary

On December 4, 1978, Dianne Feinstein was sworn in as San Francisco's first female mayor following the assassination of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk by Dan White on November 27. Feinstein, who was the Board of Supervisors president, announced their deaths to the media and stepped into the mayoral role amid a turbulent political climate.