COLUSA, Calif. (MPG) —U.S. Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a longtime Republican lawmaker who represented much of Northern California, including Colusa County, has died, House Republican leadership announced Tuesday. He was 65.
LaMalfa, a fourth-generation rice farmer and business owner, built a reputation in Washington as a strong advocate for agriculture and rural communities. He represented California’s 1st Congressional District since 2013, covering a wide stretch of the North State from the Oregon border to areas north of Sacramento.
House Majority Whip Tom Emmer confirmed LaMalfa’s death in a statement Tuesday.
“Jacquie and I are devastated about the sudden loss of our friend, Congressman Doug LaMalfa,” Emmer said. “Doug was a loving father and husband, and a staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America. Our prayers are with Doug’s wife, Jill, and their children.”
In Colusa County, LaMalfa was remembered as a consistent supporter of local agriculture and business interests. Colusa County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Jack Cunningham said LaMalfa maintained a close relationship with the chamber and the broader business community.
“Congressman LaMalfa was a trusted friend and steadfast supporter of the Colusa County Chamber of Commerce, our local business community, agriculture, and Northern California,” Cunningham said. “His leadership and dedication to rural communities left a lasting impact on Colusa County and the entire region.”
The Colusa County Board of Supervisors also issued condolences. Board Chair Daurice Smith said LaMalfa’s death was a significant loss to the North State.
“He championed rural problems and was a great supporter of our communities and agriculture,” Smith said.
LaMalfa served as chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and sat on the House committees on Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Transportation and Infrastructure. He was influential in congressional responses to major wildfires that affected Northern California in recent years.
President Donald Trump offered praise during remarks to the House Republican Conference on Tuesday, calling LaMalfa “a fierce champion on California water issues” and a leader who fought for rural communities and families.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom also issued a statement, ordering flags at the State Capitol flown at half-staff in LaMalfa’s honor.
“Congressman Doug LaMalfa was a devoted public servant who deeply loved his country, his state, and the communities he represented,” Newsom said. “While we often approached issues from different perspectives, he fought every day for the people of California with conviction and care.”
LaMalfa had planned to seek reelection in 2026 despite major changes to his district boundaries under a ballot measure approved by voters in November. The redistricting effort, backed by Democrats, was expected to make his reelection more difficult, making his future one of the most closely watched races in the state.
Newsom is required to call a special election to fill LaMalfa’s seat. His office said the election could be held as late as June, when California conducts its 2026 primary.
According to the Butte County Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a 9-1-1 call from LaMalfa’s residence at about 6:50 p.m. Monday reporting a medical emergency. The call was transferred to medical personnel, who responded to the home and transported LaMalfa to Enloe Hospital. The sheriff’s office said LaMalfa was taken into emergency surgery and died during the procedure. The coroner’s unit is conducting an investigation in accordance with standard protocol, and an autopsy has been scheduled.
Colusa County Board of Supervisors Chair Daurice Smith also issued condolences on behalf of the board, extending its thoughts and prayers to LaMalfa’s family and those impacted by his passing.
LaMalfa is survived by his wife, Jill, four children, and one grandchild.