Northern California mourns the loss of Congressman Doug LaMalfa, who has passed away at the age of 65. His death was confirmed by Republican Majority Whip Tom Emmer on social media, where he remembered LaMalfa as a dedicated family man and a fierce champion for rural America and his constituents.
LaMalfa served as the representative for California’s 1st District, a vast area stretching from Siskiyou County on the Oregon border down through the rural landscapes of Shasta and Sutter Counties.
Across the political spectrum, tributes are pouring in as colleagues honor his legacy, while the Republican majority in the House sees a slight reduction.
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office reported receiving a call Monday evening regarding a “medical emergency” at the congressman’s residence.
LaMalfa was transported to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Tragically, he did not survive the procedure.
The 65-year-old was taken to a hospital for emergency surgery, which is when he passed away.
A cause of death is under investigation.
President Trump remembered LaMalfa during a speech on Tuesday.
“He was the leader of the Western Caucus, a fierce champion on California water issues,” Trump said. “He was clear on what he wanted, ‘release the water,’ he’d scream out, and a true defender of American children. He was a defender of everybody.”
Governor Gavin Newsom remembered LaMalfa in a post on X, also saying that flags at the State Capitol will be at half-staff.
“Congressman Doug LaMalfa was a devoted public servant who deeply loved his country, his state, and the communities he represented,” Newsom said. “While we often approached issues from different perspectives, he fought every day for the people of California with conviction and care. He will be deeply missed.”
With Lamalfa’s passing, the GOP’s majority in the House now stands at 218 Republicans to 213 Democrats. His district was drastically redrawn by Proposition 50, which voters approved in November.
LaMalfa’s office released this statement on his passing:
Early this morning Congressman Doug LaMalfa returned home to the Lord. He leaves a lasting legacy of servant leadership kindness to the North State. His humor and work effort are legendary – with one reporter once saying he’d look in the back yard of every BBQ just to see if Doug was there visiting.
Congressman LaMalfa cared deeply for the people he served and worked tirelessly to hold the government to its word to fix our failing forests, build water storage, and leave people to be free to choose what is best for themselves. His tragic and unexpected passing leaves a deep impact on many. He leaves behind his amazing wife Jill, four children, one grandchild, two sisters and a host of cousins.
ABC News contributed to this story.
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