Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a Republican congressman representing California’s 1st District since 2013, has died at the age of 65. The Butte County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that LaMalfa passed away Tuesday morning at Enloe Medical Center in Chico following emergency surgery. An autopsy is underway to determine the cause of death.
LaMalfa was recognized as a leading conservative figure in Congress and a consistent advocate for rural and small community interests in Northern California. House Republicans announced his death on social media.
President Donald Trump addressed House Republicans about LaMalfa, stating, “He voted with me at 100% of time. He was with us right from the beginning.” Trump added that LaMalfa was “a fierce champion on California water issues. He was great on water. The congressman was also a true defender of American children. He was a defender of everybody. And our hearts go out to his wife, Jill, and his entire family.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom ordered flags at the state Capitol and Capitol Annex to be flown at half-staff in honor of LaMalfa’s passing. In a statement, Newsom said, “Congressman Doug LaMalfa was a devoted public servant who deeply loved his country, his state, and the communities he represented. While we often approached issues from different perspectives, he fought every day for the people of California with conviction and care. Jennifer and I are holding Doug’s family, loved ones, and colleagues in our thoughts as California mourns his passing.”
Throughout his congressional career, LaMalfa received high ratings from conservative organizations such as National Right to Life (100%), Americans for Prosperity (87% last year), and had a lifetime score of 76% from the Heritage Foundation.
LaMalfa occasionally worked across party lines when it came to local district matters; recently he joined both Republicans and Democrats urging the Interior Department not to cut jobs in national parks.
Born in Oroville, LaMalfa spent his life in Northern California as a fourth-generation rice farmer and business owner after earning an agribusiness degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Before serving in Congress, he held seats in both the state assembly (2002-2008) and senate (2010-2012). He succeeded Rep. Wally Herger in 2012 and won subsequent elections by large margins.
Colleagues expressed shock over his sudden death. Corrin Rankin, Chairwoman of the California GOP, said: “I’m heartbroken to learn of the passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa. Doug served Northern California with steady grit, a great sense of humor, and a genuine love for the people he represented… May God comfort his wife Jill, their children Kyle, Allison, Sophia, and Natalie… during this incredibly difficult time.”
Assemblymember James Gallagher described him as a mentor: “I’m lost and can’t imagine life, public service or politics without Doug… There was no one who took the job of ‘representative’ more seriously than Doug…”
LaMalfa’s passing reduces House Republicans’ majority to 218 seats—just above the threshold needed for control.
Following Proposition 50’s passage last November—which changed congressional district boundaries—voters will elect LaMalfa’s replacement using previous district lines according to redistricting expert Paul Mitchell. Governor Newsom must call a special election within two weeks; it will occur within 140 days.
Tributes were shared by lawmakers from both parties. Rep. Doris Matsui recalled working with him on forestry and water issues: “Doug LaMalfa was a force for Northern California — in his work ethic… commitment to the region… belief in public service.” House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries stated: “Rep. LaMalfa treasured his community… worked powerfully to protect California’s farmers… served those he represented with principled purpose…”
This story was originally published January 6, 2026 at 10:26 AM.
