(AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
Doug LaMalfa, a 13-year veteran of the U.S. House and a member of the Agriculture Committee, died suddenly at 65 years of age.
LaMalfa, a fourth-generation rice farmer, represented California’s first congressional district since 2013 and had previously served in the state assembly and Senate. While sitting on the House Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees, he also served as chair of the Western Caucus.
Axios reported that LaMalfa’s seat will remain vacant until a special election is held to fill it, further reducing House Republicans’ already narrow margin, which now stands at 218-213.
“Congress is devastated to learn about the passing of a dear friend and colleague, Doug LaMalfa,” said House Speaker Mike Johnson. “Doug was a lifelong resident of Northern California and deeply loved its people.”
Johnson also called him a fierce fighter for his state’s vast natural resources and beauty.
Just weeks ago, Congressman LaMalfa applauded action by the Trump Administration and U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to intervene in the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) proceedings involving the Potter Valley Hydroelectric Project. The intervention followed direct engagement between LaMalfa, senior USDA officials, and bipartisan Members of Congress to press for a coordinated federal response to protect this critical water supply.
House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson issued a statement saying, “Penny and I are devastated by the news of the passing of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a champion of rural America and a true friend. We were looking forward to hosting Doug at the Pennsylvania Farm Show this upcoming weekend. I have fond memories of spending time with Doug, traveling and engaging with the men and women who feed this great country. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this trying time. Be with the Lord, my brother.”
NAFB news service, the Office of GT Thompson and lamalfa.house.gov
Comments