BREAKING: Republican congressman from California dies suddenly at 65

January 6, 2026

From The Hill: Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) has died at 65 years old, a top Republican confirmed Tuesday.

Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.), chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee, confirmed LaMalfa’s death in a statement.

“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,” Hudson said.

He represented the 1st Congressional District in Northern California and first joined Congress in 2013.

The report notes that with LaMalfa’s death, the Republican majority in the House is now narrowed to 218, compared to 213 Democrats. Republicans can no lose only two votes and still pass legislation along party lines.

Chairman @RepHudsonNC Statement on the Passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa pic.twitter.com/ygEPmdoXye

— NRCC (@NRCC) January 6, 2026

LaMalfa’s final post on his official X account was on Saturday, as he praised President Trump for the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro. He wrote:

President Trump ordered a decisive operation aimed at disrupting a narco-terror regime responsible for years of harm to the United States. Nicolás Maduro is the head of a criminal network that pushes illegal drugs into the United States, harming or taking countless American lives.

Today’s surgical strike was an amazing display of American military power and precision. I am grateful no Americans were lost in the operation.

Today’s actions send a clear message to the world and those who seek to challenge America, that we aren’t going to make the mistakes of the past. We are putting the best and most lethal in charge- not those who would call our adversaries to “give them a heads up”. I look forward to further briefings on the raid and what the President’s plans are for the next steps for securing the western hemisphere from further crimes against freedom loving people.

President Trump ordered a decisive operation aimed at disrupting a narco-terror regime responsible for years of harm to the United States. Nicolás Maduro is the head of a criminal network that pushes illegal drugs into the United States, harming or taking countless American…

— Rep. Doug LaMalfa (@RepLaMalfa) January 3, 2026

Tributes are pouring in for LaMalfa.

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

Very sad to hear about the passing of my former House colleague and friend Rep. Doug LaMalfa. Praying for his wife, family, and staff.

— Senator Jim Banks (@SenatorBanks) January 6, 2026

I am heartbroken to hear of the loss of my dear friend and colleague, Doug LaMalfa.

For more than a decade, Doug served the people of California with integrity, conviction, and a deep love for our country. He was a strong conservative lawmaker who never wavered in his commitment…

— Young Kim (@RepYoungKim) January 6, 2026

I’m heartbroken to learn about the sudden passing of my friend and colleague, Congressman Doug LaMalfa.

Doug was a hardworking member of the House who fought tirelessly for the people of Northern California.

My prayers are with his wife, Jill, and their family. pic.twitter.com/8ziXK8tltP

— Chairwoman Lisa McClain (@RepLisaMcClain) January 6, 2026

Saddened to hear of the passing of my dear friend Doug LaMalfa. He was a conservative champion for California, and I hope you will join me in praying for his family.

— Rep. Tim Burchett Press Office (@RepTimBurchett) January 6, 2026

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

🚨 BREAKING: Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA) has just passed away.

Tragic. Pray for the family.

This brings the new House margin to 218 Republicans – 213 Democrats, meaning the GOP now has a two-vote margin. pic.twitter.com/BVKz4uvO2f

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) January 6, 2026