John Burroughs (April 7, 1907 – May 21, 1978) was an American politician, educator, and businessman who served as the 18th governor of New Mexico.

Burroughs, a Democrat, served one-term and is remembered for honest government and introduction of the concept of a state Personnel Act to improve the quality of state workers and limit somewhat the effect of political patronage.

He attended Texas Technological College (now Texas Tech University), where he played on the football team and was a member of the Agg Club, Tech Chamber of Commerce, stock judging team, and student council.

A first time representative in the New Mexico legislature from Portales in 1957, Burroughs defeated incumbent Governor Edwin L. Mechem by less than one percent of the vote (103,481 to 101,567).

[8] Burroughs retired from politics, but still served on the New Mexico Finance Board under governors Bruce King and Jerry Apodaca.