San Francisco and California Democratic politics had no taller presence for over half a century in John Burton, who died on Sunday at the age of 92.
His impact was remembered from both sides of the political aisle as one of the state’s most passionate proponents of progressive values, workers’ rights, and working families.
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi was among the initial voices to pay tribute to Burton’s legacy, describing him as “a ferocious champion for working families.” In a post on X, Pelosi looked back at his lifelong commitment to justice and equality, stating that his leadership defined California’s progressive heritage for generations.
U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla also issued a sentimental statement, citing Burton’s unparalleled work at both the state and federal levels. “With his decades of service and leadership in the State Legislature, and as California Democratic Party Chair, Burton left an indelible mark on California’s progressive legacy for generations,” Padilla declared. Padilla thanked Burton for leading the battle to expand access to health care, defend workers, raise education funding, and uphold civil rights and environmental protections. Padilla noted that Burton’s impact was felt nationwide, notably through his service in the U.S. House of Representatives.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom made a personal tribute, calling Burton “a legendary powerhouse that breathed life into our party and fought for a better California for all of us – bringing Democrats together by race, faith, and background.” Newsom said he admired his candor, passion, and compassion, and that Burton’s legacy of courage will continue to motivate future leaders.
Burton’s political career was characterized by sweeping reforms and a no-nonsense approach that earned him both respect and, occasionally, notoriety. He chaired the California Democratic Party from 1973 to 1974 and again from 2009 to 2017, contributing to solidifying the party’s hold on the state. He played a key role in writing important state legislation, such as a pioneering bill against housing discrimination and pension reform of the state employee system.
At the national level, when he was a member of Congress, Burton wrote the bill that created the Farallon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, securing his place in history as an environmentalist.
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Burton’s family relocated to San Francisco where he graduated from Lincoln High School in 1950. He continued his education at San Francisco State College and obtained a law degree from the University of San Francisco. Together with his brother, then Congressman Phillip Burton, he became part of a political dynasty that made an indelible imprint on San Francisco and California politics.
His legacy is remembered in the city and state he worked so hard for. In 2015, a section of state Highway 35 along Sloat Boulevard in San Francisco was dedicated as the John Burton Highway. The California Democratic Party headquarters in Sacramento and a hearing room in the state Capitol are also named after him, memorials that demonstrate his lasting impact.
State Sen. Scott Wiener joined the tributes, calling Burton a “giant of San Francisco and California politics.” Wiener said Burton “moved mountains for our community and stood up for progressive values even when it wasn’t popular.” He emphasized that Burton’s death is at a time when his bravery is in greatest demand. “As authoritarianism rises, John’s memory gives us resolve to fight. Rest in power.”
Burton’s life was not controversy-free, but even his detractors recognized his strong belief in social justice and his constituents. His passionate nature and direct approach were never afraid to rock the boat if it would help further causes to which he was committed.
John Burton’s passing creates a gap in California politics, but his legacy endures through the laws he wrote, the institutions named for him, and the thousands of lives he impacted. As tributes continue to pour in, it is certain that his impact on the California political scene will last for generations to come.
Leo Cruz brings sharp insights into the world of politics, offering balanced reporting and analysis on the latest policies, elections, and global political events. With years of experience covering campaigns and interviewing world leaders, Leo ensures readers are always informed and engaged.
