Sacramento, California - Governor Gavin Newsom issued the following statement today on the passing of Chona Sarte, Deputy Director of External Affairs in the Office of the Governor:

“Jennifer and I, and the entire Governor’s Office family, were heartbroken to learn of the passing of our friend and colleague, Chona Sarte. Since February, Chona served with distinction on our External Affairs team, connecting the people of our state to their government. We were all fortunate that such a kind and talented colleague was one of the first people that community leaders met when they came to Sacramento.

“While we mourn this public servant taken too soon, we look back with pride on all the good she was able to accomplish in her 32 years on earth. A passionate defender of the environment, Chona spearheaded a number of projects at the California Environmental Protection Agency to clean the air we breathe and the water we drink. Her colleagues remember this passion, matched only by her generosity as she would happily lend a hand to any teammate in need.

“We grieve alongside Chona’s husband Eugene, her parents, her brothers and all those of us who cherished her. We will never forget Chona as we continue her work toward a California for All.”