San Diego Democratic Party leader Rebecca Taylor killed in motorcycle crash in Utah

The chairman of the San Diego County Democratic Party was killed in a motorcycle accident in Utah.

Rebecca “Becca” Taylor was fatally injured when she was struck from behind on her Harley-Davidson motorcycle while returning home from a trip to the state.

Her parents and many of her six siblings were at her bedside in the hospital when she died.

Taylor, a 40-year-old bisexual man, worked as an aircraft electrician in New York and volunteered with victims of sexual assault in the Navy.

She joined the military in the early 2000s and served time in Afghanistan and Germany at a time when the military policy was “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” which led to her being briefly married to another Marine.

In 2014, she became the first woman to chair the Veterans Caucus of the California Young Democrats, which she co-founded.

After leaving the military and graduating from San Diego State University, Taylor moved to San Diego.

She became involved in local political organization, rose to become the party’s top representative, and most recently served as acting chair of the SDCDP for the past seven months after being elected to the office last January.

In her role, she had considerable influence over political donations and recommendations.

In party politics, the chairman of the board determines who receives financial and other support from the party and who appears on influential campaign mailings.

Taylor was an avid motorcycle fanatic and often posted photos of her working on her bike or traveling on Instagram.

Her last Instagram post was just a week old, when she was in Springville, Utah, on her way to a motorcycle event with the Temecula-based motorcycle group Babes Ride Out.

Several California political figures paid tribute to Taylor on Wednesday, praising her as a strong, clear and compassionate leader.

In a statement, California Governor Gavin Newsom said he was “deeply saddened by the tragic and sudden loss of Rebecca Taylor.”

“Her commitment to public service and her remarkable impact on the San Diego community will never be forgotten,” he said. “Our thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones during this time.”

“Becca has 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 Marine veteran, an advocate for victims of sexual assault, a member of the Ocean Beach City Council and a volunteer who worked to find resources for asylum seekers,” he said.

“She embodied the best in us. We are all just beginning to process this shocking and devastating loss. Our thoughts are with Becca’s family and extended support network as we grieve together.”

San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria also expressed his condolences.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Rebecca Taylor. Becca was a tremendous and passionate leader of 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. Thank you, Becca, for everything. Good luck.”

His Democratic colleague Scott Peters (D-San Diego), who worked with Taylor during the election campaign, expressed his devastation in his eulogy.

“Team Peters lost one of its brightest alumni stars last night and we are heartbroken,” said a statement from Peters’ office.

“We met Becca Taylor when she was an organizer on our 2014 re-election campaign. It was a tough and tense time, but above the dull noise of a crowded campaign office, we could hear Becca’s distinctive and optimistic voice cheering others on, a one-man motto band.

“Becca was a Navy veteran, a talented and tireless advocate and organizer for 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.”