John Burton, one of the most influential figures in California politics for decades, who gained a reputation as a straight talker from his zestful use of profanity and his openhearted discussion of overcoming drug addiction, died Sunday at a hospice facility in San Francisco. He was 92.

His family announced the death. His health had deteriorated after a fall about two weeks ago.

Burton was considered a leader of a political machine that dominated California politics, along with his brother Phillip, who, like John, served in the House of Representatives; Phillip's widow, Sala, who succeeded Phillip in the House; and Willie Brown, a former San Francisco mayor.

Among the state leaders this group picked or mentored were Nancy Pelosi, the former speaker of the House; Barbara Boxer, the forme

See Full Page