Burnaby’s political preferences became evident as voters frequently elected social democrats to provincial and federal office, although sometimes by slim margins. The same preference repeated at the municipal level. These elected politicians worked to provide residents with public services from streetlights and sewers to skating rinks and libraries, but also advocated for universal health care, human rights, and economic reform. 

Despite Burnaby’s growing cosmopolitan and affluent appearance, locals frequently continued to elect social democrats to public office who championed the comfort of local working people and defended human rights. Although politics was never without debate, Burnaby voters continued their earlier pattern of support for local governments who promised to balance economic security with social and environmental concerns. Many trade unions established or maintained offices in Burnaby.