In the fast-paced world of American politics, few names command as much respect in communications as Bill Burton. A seasoned political consultant and communications strategist, Burton has been a guiding force behind some of the most significant political campaigns and leaders of our time.
His journey from a young press secretary to a White House insider and a successful entrepreneur is a testament to his sharp intellect and deep understanding of the political landscape.
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From Buffalo to the Beltway: The Making of a Strategist
Born in Buffalo, New York, Bill Burton’s path to the heart of Washington D.C. was paved with a strong educational foundation and a passion for political discourse. He graduated from the University of Minnesota with a degree in English literature, where he focused on African American literature, a field that honed his skills in communication and critical thinking.
Burton began his career in the trenches of Capitol Hill, serving as a press secretary for Congressman Bill Luther and Senator Tom Harkin. These early roles provided him with invaluable experience in the art of political messaging and media relations.
He quickly gained a reputation as a sharp and effective communicator, leading to his role as the communications director for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee during the pivotal 2006 election cycle, which saw Democrats regain control of the House of Representatives.
Inside the Obama White House: A Voice of the Administration
Bill Burton’s career reached new heights when he joined Barack Obama’s presidential campaign in 2007 as the national press secretary. He was one of the first hires for the campaign, and his strategic communication skills played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of Obama’s historic run for the presidency.
Following the successful campaign, Burton transitioned to the White House, where he served as the Deputy White House Press Secretary and a Special Assistant to the President. In this high-pressure role, he was a trusted advisor to President Obama, briefing reporters from the podium of the White House briefing room and on Air Force One.
He was also a pioneer in digital communication, becoming the first White House employee to have an official Twitter account, a move that signaled a new era of political engagement.
Changing the Game: The Birth of Priorities USA Action
After his tenure in the White House, Bill Burton embarked on a new venture that would reshape the landscape of political fundraising and advertising. In 2011, he co-founded Priorities USA Action, a super PAC dedicated to supporting President Obama’s reelection campaign.
This organization became one of the most influential super PACs in the country, raising significant funds to run pro-Obama commercials. The impact of Priorities USA Action was undeniable.
One of its ads, which criticized Mitt Romney, was described by pollster Frank Luntz as having killed Mitt Romney in Ohio. This demonstrated Burton’s ability to craft powerful and effective political messages that could sway public opinion.
Entrepreneurial Spirit: Building a Communications Legacy
Bill Burton’s entrepreneurial drive led him to establish himself as a leader in the private sector. After his success with Priorities USA Action, he took on a role as a managing director at the Global Strategy Group, a public affairs firm with a diverse range of clients.
He then went on to open the California office for SKDKnickerbocker, further expanding his influence in the world of political consulting.
In 2020, Burton took his biggest step yet as an entrepreneur, launching Bryson Gillette, a minority-owned political and strategic communications firm based in Los Angeles. As the founding partner and CEO, he leads a team that provides strategic counsel to a wide array of clients, from political leaders to corporations and nonprofits.
His work at Bryson Gillette focuses on driving national communications campaigns on critical issues such as climate change, education reform, and racial justice.
A Respected Voice: Recognition and Influence
Throughout his career, Bill Burton has earned the respect and admiration of his peers. In 2016, he was named to the American Association of Political Consultants 40 Under 40 list, a recognition of his status as a young leader and innovator in the political business community.
The AAPC lauded him as a renowned strategist who has advised influential leaders across the country. His expertise is sought after by a wide range of organizations, and his ability to simplify complex ideas and create strategies that cut through the noise has made him a trusted advisor to many.
His work has not only influenced political campaigns but has also shaped public discourse on some of the most pressing issues of our time.
Beyond Politics: A Life in Santa Barbara
While his career has been centered around the high-stakes world of politics, Bill Burton has also cultivated a rich personal life. Since 2015, he has made his home in Santa Barbara, California, with his wife, Kelly Ward Burton, and their three children.
This move reflects a desire for a balanced life, where he can continue to make a national impact while enjoying the beauty and tranquility of the West Coast.
In his free time, Burton enjoys playing the guitar and teaching his son to play basketball. These personal pursuits reveal a side of him that is grounded and family-oriented, a contrast to the often-tumultuous world of political consulting.
The Burton Legacy: Shaping Modern Political Discourse
Bill Burton’s legacy is one of innovation, strategic brilliance, and a deep commitment to his clients and causes. From the White House to the world of super PACs and his own communications firm, he has consistently been at the forefront of political communication.
His ability to adapt to the changing media landscape and his pioneering use of digital tools have set a new standard for political strategists.
As he continues to lead Bryson Gillette and advise on critical issues, Bill Burton’s influence on American politics is sure to endure. He is a master of the message, a shaper of narratives, and a key figure in the ongoing conversation that is modern political discourse.
