As one of the youngest women in the Senate, Alabama’s Katie Britt praised the service of California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the oldest sitting senator at 90 whose death was announced Friday morning.

Britt, 41, described Feinstein as an inspiration to young girls and credited her with creating a path for Britt to be serving in the Senate today.

Related: Sen. Dianne Feinstein, California political icon, dead at 90

“Senator Dianne Feinstein dedicated her life to public service,” Britt said in a statement Friday. “She was a true trailblazer, paving the way for the women who serve in the Senate today and inspiring young girls across our country. It’s not lost on me that I wouldn’t be where I am now without decades of sacrifices by pioneers like her. When confronted with tragedy and tribulations throughout her career, she was fearless. Our prayers are with her loved ones as they grieve this tremendous loss and as America honors her enduring legacy.”

Feinstein, a Democrat and former mayor of San Francisco, was elected to the Senate in 1992.

In a brief statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, Alabama Sen. Tommy Tuberville said, “Sad to hear about the loss of my friend Dianne Feinstein. Grateful I got to know her. Keeping her family and loved ones in my thoughts and prayers.”