Tragic Passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa at 65

Thu Jan 08 2026 09:35:55 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

U.S. Congressman Doug LaMalfa has unexpectedly passed away at the age of 65, prompting tributes from colleagues and political leaders.

Republican Congressman Doug LaMalfa of California has died unexpectedly at the age of 65, leaving a significant impact on the U.S. Congress. President Trump and fellow lawmakers honored LaMalfa for his dedicated service and advocacy for agriculture and rural issues. LaMalfa's death reduces the Republican majority in the House, intensifying the political landscape following recent resignations. A special election will soon be called to fill his seat.

Doug LaMalfa, a Republican Congressman from California, has died unexpectedly at age 65, colleagues announced on Tuesday.

President Donald Trump offered a tribute to LaMalfa, stating that he wanted to express our tremendous sorrow at the loss of a great member - a great, great, great member.

The congressman's cause of death was not immediately clear. LaMalfa, a former rice farmer elected to Congress in 2013, was influential in addressing water and agricultural issues during his tenure.

His death further narrows the already-thin Republican majority in the House of Representatives, which now stands at 218-213 after the recent resignation of former Trump ally Marjorie Taylor Greene.

Trump praised LaMalfa, saying, He was a fantastic person. He voted with me 100% of the time. Fellow Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer recognized LaMalfa's role as a staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America.

LaMalfa earned a degree in agriculture business from California Polytechnic State University and served in the California State Legislature before his congressional term, focusing on relief for fire victims in his Northern California district and promoting policies to protect farmers from overregulation.

With his passing, Republicans are faced with a precarious situation in Congress, where any absences could jeopardize their slim majority. Additionally, another Republican member, Indiana Congressman Jim Baird, was hospitalized following a recent car accident, but is expected to recover.

Governor Gavin Newsom is expected to call for a special election to fill LaMalfa's seat within the next 14 days under California law.