William Daniel Brayton (November 6, 1815 – June 30, 1887) was a U.S. Representative from Rhode Island. Born in Warwick, Rhode Island, Brayton attended Kent Academy in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. Brayton spent two years in Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island and then engaged in mercantile pursuits. He was a Major of the Fourth Regiment of Rhode Island Militia in the Dorr Rebellion. Later, in 1844, he was the town clerk of Warwick and also as member of the town council. He served as member of the State house of representatives in 1841 and 1851. He served in the State Senate in 1848 and 1853.