Breaking: Republican Congressman Doug LaMalfa Dies Suddenly at Age 65
House Republicans announced the sudden death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R‑CA). A lifelong Northern California resident and fourth‑generation rice farmer, LaMalfa represented California’s 1st Congressional District from 2013 to 2026 and served as chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, capping more than two decades in public service. Colleagues said thay were shocked and that Republicans close to him were unaware of any health issues.The party urged prayers for his wife, children and staff. Politico noted his seat had been a Democratic target and that LaMalfa faced a difficult reelection path; his death narrows the GOP majority in the House to 218-213, leaving Speaker Mike Johnson little margin for defections on party‑line votes.
House Republicans announced Tuesday that Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) has died, his congressional colleagues announced Tuesday.
The announcement was d in a statement posted by the official House Republicans X account.
LaMalfa was described as a lifelong resident of Northern California and a fourth-generation rice farmer.
House Republicans mourn the loss of Congressman Doug LaMalfa.
A lifelong resident of Northern California and a fourth-generation rice farmer, Congressman LaMalfa spent more than two decades in public service. He proudly represented California’s 1st Congressional District from… pic.twitter.com/nTFSiEXUlE
— House Republicans (@HouseGOP) January 6, 2026
The statement noted that LaMalfa spent more than two decades in public service.
“He proudly represented California’s 1st Congressional District from 2013 to 2026, serving as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus,” the statement read.
House Republicans concluded, “Please join us in praying for Congressman LaMalfa’s wife, kids, and staff.”
According to Politico, Republicans close to LaMalfa were unaware of any health issues.
Several GOP lawmakers said they were shocked by his sudden death.
Jacquie and I are devastated about the sudden loss of our friend, Congressman Doug LaMalfa. Doug was a loving father and husband, and staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America. Our prayers are with Doug’s wife, Jill, and their children. pic.twitter.com/NsnxZsp2W3
— Tom Emmer (@GOPMajorityWhip) January 6, 2026
As Politico also noted, LaMalfa’s seat has been targeted by California Democrats for years.
LaMalfa was widely expected to face a difficult reelection path this year, as California looks to further gerrymander the state.
His death further tightens the Republican majority in the House.
Republicans now hold a 218-213 advantage.
Speaker Mike Johnson can afford no more than two defections on party-line votes with all members are present.
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