Rebecca Taylor, chairwoman of the San Diego County Democrats, dies in motorcycle accident

San Diego County Democratic Party Chairwoman Rebecca “Becca” Taylor died in a motorcycle accident in Utah, the party announced on Wednesday.

She died when she was hit from behind while driving home from a trip, the party said in a statement. Further details were not available at the time.

“Becca had an invaluable impact on so many and led San Diego to a better future,” said Kyle Krahel-Frolander, the party’s acting chair. “Becca was more than a leader, she was a public servant. She was a Navy veteran, an advocate for victims of sexual violence, a member of the OB City Council and a volunteer who sought resources for asylum seekers.”

“She embodied the best in us. We are all just beginning to process this shocking and devastating loss. In our shared grief, our thoughts are with Becca’s family and extended circle of loved ones.”

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria expressed his condolences.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Rebecca Taylor. Becca was a tremendous and passionate leader for our local Democratic Party, but she was so much more than that,” he said. “She was a daughter, sister, veteran, friend to many and a shining light who inspired us all to live life to the fullest. Her leadership, passion and dedication to our community have left an indelible mark. She will be greatly missed and I extend my deepest condolences to her family and friends during this difficult time.”

“Thank you, Becca, for everything. Have a nice trip.”

Democratic Rep. Scott Peters of San Diego, who worked with Taylor during the campaign, expressed his sadness.

“Team Peters lost one of its brightest alumni stars last night and we are deeply saddened,” said a statement from Peters’ office. “We got to know Becca Taylor when she worked as an organizer on our 2014 re-election campaign. It was a tough and tense time, but above the dull roar of a packed campaign office, we could hear Becca’s distinctive and optimistic voice cheering others on, a one-man cheer squad.”

“Since then, we have remained loyal friends and supporters. Becca has always supported us and looked out for us. And we have always cheered Becca on, whether during her run for Central Committee, during her search for a new job, and finally when she became Chair of the San Diego County Democratic Party.

“Becca was a Navy veteran, a talented and tireless advocate and organizer of democratic causes, and a true friend. Her infectious laugh, bright smile, and sparkle were ever-present. … Today we mourn the loss of a great one. This is a brutal loss for all of us. We will miss you terribly, sweet Becca. Thank you for everything. Our love and prayers go out to Becca’s family and all who loved her.”

Taylor worked as an aircraft electrician and volunteered as an advocate for victims of sexual violence in the Navy, the party’s website says. In 2014, she co-founded the California Young Democrats’ Veterans Caucus and became the first woman to serve as its chair. She previously served on the Ocean Beach Town Council board and was secretary of the Metro West Area Caucus.

She also worked as a volunteer manager for the San Diego Rapid Response Network, which supports asylum seekers.

“I am heartbroken by the passing of Becca Taylor,” Democratic Rep. Sara Jacobs of San Diego wrote on X. “Becca dedicated her life to serving others – from the Navy to advocating for victims of sexual violence to engaging more people in our democracy. She was kind, funny, sharp, and endlessly selfless. I will miss her.”