WASHINGTON — Republican U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa, who for more than a decade represented California’s sprawling 1st Congressional District, has died at age 65, House GOP leaders confirmed Tuesday. His sudden passing further reduces the already slim Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives, compounding political uncertainty as lawmakers begin a new session.
LaMalfa’s office and party leaders announced his death early Tuesday. House Majority Whip Tom Emmer described LaMalfa as “a loving father and husband, and staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America.” National Republican Congressional Committee Chairman Richard Hudson said he was “deeply saddened” by the loss of his colleague and friend.
The congressman, a fourth-generation rice farmer from Richvale, California, had served in the House since 2013. Before that, he held seats in both the California State Assembly and State Senate, building a reputation as a conservative voice on agriculture, water management and rural affairs.
LaMalfa’s district stretched from the Oregon border across much of Northern California’s rural interior, including communities such as Redding, Chico and Yuba City. He also served as chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, championing issues important to farmers, forest communities and small towns often overlooked in state and federal policymaking.
The circumstances of LaMalfa’s death remain unclear, and no official cause has been released. Reports indicate that emergency personnel were called to his home Monday evening for a medical emergency, and he was taken to a hospital where he underwent surgery before passing away.
LaMalfa’s unexpected death comes amid a pivotal moment for the Republican Party in the House. With his seat now vacant and the recent resignation of Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.), the GOP’s majority has shrunk to just 218 seats compared with 213 for Democrats. That narrow margin gives Republican leadership very little room for defections on key votes, complicating legislative strategy in the months ahead.
Across the political spectrum, leaders offered tributes and condolences. Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and other House Democrats acknowledged LaMalfa’s long service to his constituents, emphasizing respect for his commitment to public office. California Governor Gavin Newsom also praised LaMalfa as a dedicated public servant who cared deeply about his state’s rural communities.
LaMalfa had been preparing for what was expected to be a competitive 2026 reelection campaign after California voters approved a new redistricting plan last year that could have made his seat more favorable to Democratic challengers. With his passing, a special election will be required to fill the vacant seat, likely drawing multiple candidates from both parties as the state’s political landscape continues shifting.
He is survived by his wife, Jill, their four children, and a growing number of grandchildren.
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