Senator Barbara Boxer (D)
Hometown: Greenbrae
Web Form
Senator Dianne Feinstein (D)
Hometown: San Francisco
Web Form
As one element of the hotly contested Compromise of 1850, California became the 31st state to join the Union on September 9, 1850. California’s first two senators, John C. Fremont and William Gwin, took office on September 10, 1850. California’s longest-serving senators include Hiram Johnson (1917-1945) and Alan Cranston (1969-1993). Among those who rose to leadership positions are William F. Knowland, who became Republican floor leader, and Thomas Kuchel, who served as Republican Party whip.