Butler, 44, who is president of Emilys List, is expected to be sworn in this week.
She will be the first Black lesbian to openly serve in theU.S.
An issue that quickly arose with Butlers appointment was her residency.
Laphonza ButlerPhoto by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images
She listed Maryland on her Twitter bio.
She previously lived in California and served as president of SEIU Long Term Care Workers, SEIU Local 2015.
She joined Emilys List in 2018.
In a statement, Butler said, I am honored to accept Gov.
Newsoms nomination to be a U.S.
Senator for a state I have long called home.
I am humbled by the Governors trust.
Sen. Dianne Feinsteins leadership and legacy are immeasurable.
Feinstein died Friday at the age of 90 after serving more than 30 years in the Senate.
I am singularly focused on winning my campaign for Senate.
CA deserves an experienced Senator who will deliver on progressive priorities.
Thats exactly what Im running to do.
I want to offer my congratulations to Laphonza Butler on her appointment.
I look forward to working closely with her to get things done for California.
Politico broke the news of her appointment.
