Republican Representative Doug LaMalfa, a rice farmer who held political office in California for over twenty years, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, as stated by President Donald Trump on Tuesday. LaMalfa was 65 years old. “I wish to convey our profound sadness at the passing of an exceptional member, an outstanding, outstanding, outstanding member, Congressman Doug LaMalfa, who died yesterday, as you may have heard,” Trump remarked on Tuesday morning during a meeting with House Republicans at the Kennedy Centre.
Earlier, members of the House GOP leadership team acknowledged LaMalfa’s passing, honouring him on social media. “Doug was a devoted father and husband, as well as a strong supporter of his constituents and rural America,” stated Majority Whip Tom Emmer, R-Minn., the third-ranking leader, on X. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Doug’s wife, Jill, and their children.”
Who Was Doug Lamalfa?
Doug LaMalfa (born July 2, 1960) was an American politician and businessman, recognized primarily for his tenure as a United States Representative for California’s 1st Congressional District from 2013 until his passing in January 2026. He was affiliated with the Republican Party and represented a predominantly rural region in northern California, which encompassed communities such as Chico and Redding.
Before his congressional career, LaMalfa was a member of the California State Assembly (2002–2008) and the California State Senate (2010–2012). His background was deeply rooted in agriculture; he was a fourth-generation rice farmer and frequently addressed topics related to farming, water rights, forestry, and rural concerns on national platforms.
His colleagues and constituents characterised him as a committed conservative who consistently backed Republican leadership and the initiatives of former President Donald Trump. Below are some more details about Doug Lamalfa, his death, family details, etc.
Death Reason
On January 5, 2026, LaMalfa was admitted to the hospital following a medical crisis at his residence in Richvale. He was taken to Chico, California, where he received emergency surgical intervention. During the operation, LaMalfa suffered a heart attack and an aneurysm. He passed away the next day at 3:20 a.m. PST while still undergoing surgery, at the age of 65.
Family and Personal Life
Doug LaMalfa was married to Jill, and together they had four children: Kyle, Allison, Sophia, and Natalie. At the time of his death, it was also reported that he had at least one grandchild. LaMalfa was recognised as a family-oriented individual who frequently expressed his pride in his children and his strong Christian beliefs.
LaMalfa was raised in Oroville, California, and pursued his education at Butte College and California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree. His profound connection to the farming and rural communities of Northern California was a defining aspect of his public service.
Public Response
In U.S. politics, LaMalfa’s efforts were recognised positively and negatively across political lines. Supporters recognised LaMalfa for his focus on rural interests, as well as water policy, wildfire mitigation, and agriculture. Alternatively, opponents pointed to LaMalfa’s more restrictive conservative policies, such as opposition to certain environmental regulations and social safety nets, as examples of why they thought he was unqualified to hold public office.
Both national and state leaders issued tributes, recognising LaMalfa’s dedication to serving the public and being an advocate for rural America. Prominent Republicans, such as House GOP Leadership and state officials, released statements acknowledging LaMalfa’s service and leadership qualities.
