State Sen. Sharon Runner, a longtime legislator who championed a sweeping law that targeted sex offenders and then battled back into political life after failing health, died today.
She was 62.
A statement from her family cited respiratory complications as the cause of death. She had been absent for much of the legislative year because of her health and was not a candidate for reelection in November.
Mrs. Runner underwent a double lung transplant in 2012, a result of her long battle with scleroderma and subsequently dropped out of her Senate reelection bid that year. She decided to return in a 2015 special election after another GOP legislator was elected to Congress. She previously served six years in the Assembly, from 2002 to 2008.
Assembly Republican leader Chad Mayes (R-Yucca Valley) called Mrs. Runner a “champion for California’s children,” noting that she authored legislation to expand charter schools, help families adopt, and improve the lives of foster kids.
“Sharon’s battle with scleroderma and her successful recovery from a double lung transplant inspired us all, and encouraged many Californians to sign up to become organ donors,” Mr. Mayes added.
Senate President Pro Tem Kevin De Leon (D-Los Angeles) praised Mrs. Runner for service during difficult circumstances.
“While battling a tragic illness, Sen. Runner endured and showed a real commitment to representing the people of her district,” Mr. De Leon said.
“Sharon Runner’s life was one of service,” said Jim Brulte, the chairman of California Republican Party, in a statement. “Sharon was committed to the people of her community and our great state.”
