The US Sen. Dianne Feinstein has died at the age of 90

The US Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the California Democrat who broke gender barriers in her five decades in politics, died Thursday night at her Washington, D.C. home after numerous health scares. She was 90 years old.

Feinstein's chief of staff, James Sauls, confirmed her death in a mid-morning statement.

Her passing is a great loss to the many people who loved and cared for her and to the Californians who devoted their lives to her service.

James Sauls Feinstein's Chief of Staff

There are few women who can be called senator, chairman, mayor, wife, mother and grandmother.

James Sauls Feinstein's Chief of Staff

Senator Feinstein was a force of nature who had an incredible impact on our country and her home state. She leaves behind a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary."

James Sauls Feinstein's Chief of Staff

The California Democrat was the oldest member of the Senate and announced plans to retire at the end of his term.

James Sauls Feinstein's Chief of Staff

Feinstein cast her last vote in the Senate late Thursday morning. Her cause of death is yet to be confirmed.

In August, the long-serving senator was taken to the hospital after tripping and falling in his hometown of San Francisco, his office announced at the time.

The Democrat suffered "no serious injuries" from the mess, his spokeswoman stressed.

She returned to the Senate in May, wheeling around the Capitol with one eye nearly closed.

US by swiping on your screen. Sen. Read more about the amazing life of Dianne Feinstein.

She returned to the Senate in May, wheeling around the Capitol with one eye nearly closed.