Former congressman John Burton dies at 92, politicians react

(FOX40.COM) — Various politicians are releasing statements in response to the death of longtime Democratic California political leader and former congressman John Burton, 92.

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The official California Democratic Party X page has reposted multiple statements from politicians confirming his death on Sunday.

In an X post, California Governor Gavin Newsom said, “When it comes to California politics, there was no one like John Burton. A legendary powerhouse that breathed life into our party and fought for a better California for everyone — uniting Democrats across race, belief, and background. His candor, passion, and empathy were contagious. May his legacy of courage and conviction live on in each of us.”

Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla released a statement that read in part, “From his decades of service and leadership in the State Legislature, and as Chair of the California Democratic Party, Burton shaped California’s progressive legacy for generations. He led the fight to expand access to health care, strengthened protections for workers, increased funding for education, and helped establish our state as a national example for civil rights and environmental protection, while fiercely advocating for these core California values on the federal stage in the U.S. House of Representatives.”

Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi stated that behind Burton’s “profanity-laden language,” he has progressive visions on how to embody the promise of America.

“Guided by a big heart, and aided by a brilliant strategic mind, John was boundlessly effective in every arena in which he served – whether protesting the war in Vietnam, bringing the concerns of Californians to Congress, serving in the state Assembly and Senate or twice leading our state Democratic Party,” Pelosi said. “He cultivated his friendships in politics, music, community and sports—  nurturing deep, decades-long relationships and always engaging new people.”

Sen. Scott Wiener said, “John Burton was a giant of San Francisco & California politics. He moved mountains for our community & stood up for progressive values even when it wasn’t popular. His passing is a huge loss… As authoritarianism rises, John’s memory gives us resolve to fight. Rest in power.”