2:56Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif., departs the House Republicans’ caucus gathering at the Capitol Hill Club in Washington, May 10, 2023.Bill Clark/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images
California Republican Representative Doug LaMalfa has passed away at the age of 65, as confirmed by his office — prompting reactions from President Donald Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, and other Republican leaders on Tuesday regarding the sudden demise of the seven-term congressman.
LaMalfa’s chief of staff, Mark Spannagel, issued a statement on behalf of the congressman’s office affirming his death early on Tuesday morning.
"Early this morning Congressman Doug LaMalfa returned home to the Lord. He leaves a lasting legacy of servant leadership [and] kindness to the North State," the statement emphasized. "His humor and dedication to work are legendary – with one reporter once noting he would check the backyards of every BBQ just to see if Doug was visiting."
"Congressman LaMalfa had a profound concern for the people he represented and worked relentlessly to ensure the government fulfilled its promises to restore our ailing forests, construct water storage, and allow individuals the freedom to make their own choices," the statement continued. "His sudden and tragic passing leaves a significant void for many. He is survived by his wonderful wife Jill, four children, one grandchild, two sisters, and numerous cousins."
Rep. Doug LaMalfa addresses the House of Representatives at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, April 23, 2020.House Television via AP
LaMalfa’s premature death affects Speaker Johnson’s narrow majority, which consists of 218 Republicans and 213 Democrats, leaving GOP leaders with a slim two-vote margin. This comes only a day after Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene stepped down from her position a year prior to her term’s conclusion.
"Congress is heartbroken to hear this morning about the loss of our dear friend and colleague, Doug LaMalfa," Johnson, R-La., stated in a release. "Doug was a lifelong resident of northern California and held a deep affection for its people. He was a passionate advocate for his state’s vast natural resources and beauty, more than anyone we have ever known. We are grieving the loss of our friend and brother today and extend our condolences to his wife Jill and the LaMalfa family during this challenging time."
President Trump, addressing attendees at a House Republican retreat at the recently renamed Kennedy Center on Tuesday morning, responded to LaMalfa’s death — lauding him as "a staunch advocate for California water concerns."
"Before we proceed, I want to convey our profound sadness at the loss of a remarkable member, a truly exceptional member: Congressman Doug LaMalfa," Trump remarked.
"He was outstanding on water issues. He advocated for water releases, and he was a true protector of American children. He was a defender of everyone. Our thoughts are with his wife, Jill, and his entire family,” Trump added.
The president asserted that LaMalfa voted with him "100% of the time" and was not a member requiring the speaker’s persuasion to align with the president’s stance.
"I spoke with Doug, but I didn’t have any issues with him — I mean, I never encountered a problem," Trump stated. "And I was genuinely saddened by his passing and considered not delivering the speech in his tribute. However, I ultimately decided that I had to honor him by proceeding with it. I’ll deliver it in his honor, as he would have wished it that way."
President Donald Trump speaks at a House Republican retreat at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, January 6, 2026 in Washington.Alex Wong/Getty Images
On the opposing side, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who began his term in 2013 alongside LaMalfa, expressed his condolences to the family and constituents of
Sourse: abcnews.go.com