Burton M. Cross graduated from Cony High School and embarked on a career in public service, winning a seat on the Augusta Common Council in the early 1930s. He progressively advanced through various municipal and state positions, culminating in his election as Governor of Maine in 1952. During his tenure, Cross focused on reorganizing state commissions and modernizing state offices, although his appointments to contentious roles stirred internal party conflict. Despite personal exoneration from a significant scandal, he was defeated in his reelection bid in 1954. Post-public service, Cross worked in insurance and stock brokerage.

Burton M. Cross's political career is marked by an intriguing blend of modernization efforts and controversial appointments. His tenure saw significant restructuring of state commissions, yet his choices in judicial appointments sparked internal party conflict. Cross’s approach to governance reveals a calculated balancing act between reform and maintaining political power, leaving one to wonder about the underlying motives behind his decisions.