Everett Burkhalter

Everett Burkhalter was an American politician who served as a U.S. Representative for California's 27th congressional district from 1963 to 1965. A member of the Democratic Party, Burkhalter's political career spanned several decades and included roles in the California State Assembly and the Los Angeles City Council. His legislative focus and public service were marked by various local and state issues, reflecting the dynamics of mid-20th century American politics.

Early life and career

Everett Glen Burkhalter was born on January 19, 1897, in Heber Springs, Arkansas. His early education took place across several states, including Arkansas, Indiana, Colorado, and California. In 1918, during World War I, Burkhalter enlisted in the United States Navy and served until his honorable discharge in 1919. He remained in the active reserve until 1921. Following his military service, Burkhalter relocated to Los Angeles around 1928, where he began to establish his career and personal life. He married Velma in 1929, and the couple settled in North Hollywood, California, at 11005 Morrison Street.

Before entering politics, Burkhalter worked as a film studio electrician, a role that allowed him to engage with the burgeoning entertainment industry in Los Angeles. His professional background in film and electrical work provided him with a unique perspective on the economic and cultural developments occurring in California during this period. Burkhalter's early career experiences likely influenced his later political decisions and legislative priorities.

House tenure

Burkhalter's political career began in earnest when he was elected to the California State Assembly, representing the 42nd District as a Democrat from 1941 to 1947. During his time in the Assembly, he participated in various legislative initiatives and gained valuable experience in state governance. In 1946, after serving three terms in the Assembly, he attempted to transition to federal politics by running for Congress in California's 20th District. However, he was defeated by the Republican incumbent, Carl Hinshaw.

After a brief hiatus from political office, Burkhalter returned to the California State Assembly in 1948, winning election to his former seat. He was re-elected in 1950, further solidifying his political presence in the state. In 1952, he made another bid for Congress, this time in the newly established 21st District, but was again unsuccessful, losing to Edgar W. Hiestand.

Burkhalter's next significant political achievement came in 1953 when he was elected to the Los Angeles City Council, representing District 1. His tenure on the City Council included re-elections in 1957 and 1961, during which he engaged with various local issues, such as urban development and public services. Notably, he supported the relocation of the Brooklyn Dodgers to Los Angeles and the construction of Dodger Stadium in Chavez Ravine. However, he resigned from the City Council in 1962 to pursue a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.

In 1962, Burkhalter successfully ran for Congress in the newly drawn 27th District, defeating the incumbent Edgar Hiestand in a closely contested election. His victory marked a significant milestone in his political career, as he became a member of the U.S. House of Representatives. However, Burkhalter's time in Congress was relatively short-lived, as he served only one term, concluding his service on January 3, 1965. His dissatisfaction with the legislative process in the House, particularly when compared to his experiences in the California Assembly, led him to decline to seek re-election in 1964.

Legislative focus and committees

During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Burkhalter's legislative focus reflected the pressing issues of the era. His background in local governance and his experiences on the City Council informed his approach to federal legislation. Although specific details about the bills he sponsored or voted on during his congressional tenure are not extensively documented, his earlier political positions provide insight into his priorities.

Burkhalter was an advocate for urban development and public infrastructure, as evidenced by his support for projects like Dodger Stadium and the development of Bunker Hill in Los Angeles. He was also involved in discussions surrounding employment practices, having voted in favor of establishing a Fair Employment Practices Commission in Los Angeles, although this initiative did not pass. His engagement with issues of public health and environmental concerns was evident when he publicly criticized Kaiser Steel for its emissions, highlighting the impact of industrial pollution on the Los Angeles area.

In 1961, Burkhalter submitted a resolution urging Congress to study the implications of American films being produced overseas, reflecting his concern for the domestic film industry and its economic ramifications. He noted the increasing trend of movie production shifting to Europe and the involvement of foreign entities, which he believed threatened the American film sector.

Burkhalter's tenure in Congress was characterized by a mix of local advocacy and broader legislative interests, although his time in the House was limited. His decision not to seek re-election was influenced by his perception of the inefficiencies within the House compared to his experiences in the California Assembly.

After leaving Congress, Burkhalter continued to engage with his community until his death on May 24, 1975, in Duarte, California. He was interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park-Hollywood Hills. Burkhalter was survived by his wife, Velma, and two brothers, William and Lawrence. His life and career reflect the complexities of mid-20th century American politics, particularly in the context of California's evolving political landscape.