Former Congressman John Burton, who had an outsized influence on California politics and helped shape the state's Democratic Party since the 1960s, has died, a family spokesperson confirmed. He was 92.

Burton was active in politics for over 60 years, and in that time, he served as a U.S. congressman, California assemblymember, President pro Tempore of the California State Senate, and chairman of the California Democratic Party.

"He believed that if you're in a position of power or influence the most important thing you could do is help those with the least. Protecting the underdog, the poor, the disabled, and workers was always his top priority," Burton's family said.

In a statement, Gov. Gavin Newsom said flags would be flown at half-staff in Burton's honor and that he would posthumous

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