U.S. Rep. Doug LaMalfa, (R-Calif.) has died.
He was 65.
LaMalfa represented the 1st Congressional District, part of Northern California. He was chair of the Congressional Western Caucus, Fox Newsreported.
Now, the House Republicans’ majority is 218–213.
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) wrote about LaMalfa’s death on X.
“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,” Emmer wrote.
LaMalfa championed conservative causes was known as a kind man to both reporters and his fellow House lawmakers.
His death — as well as the recent resignation of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) — signals that the House GOP currently can lose only two votes and pass anything along party lines.
This slim majority of note as Republicans hope to pass a second “big, beautiful bill” this Legislative session.
Tributes have started as his colleague mourn his death.
“Doug was a principled conservative and a tireless advocate for the people of Northern California. He was never afraid to fight for rural communities, farmers, and working families. Doug brought grit, authenticity, and conviction to everything he did in public service,” National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) Chairman Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) said.
Rep. Young Kim (R-Calif.) said in a statement, “Doug was not only a respected colleague in the California Republican Delegation, but a genuinely kind, decent man who treated everyone with warmth and respect. His leadership, friendship, and steady presence will be deeply missed.”
