Ascension to Mayor of San Francisco
1978
Following the assassinations of Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk in 1978, Feinstein, as President of the Board of Supervisors, succeeded to the office of Mayor. This was a period of intense grief and turmoil for the city, and Feinstein's steady leadership helped to heal and stabilize San Francisco. She became known for her pragmatic approach and her commitment to public safety.