In brief
Doug LaMalfa, a Republican Congressman from California, has died unexpectedly at the age of 65, prompting tributes from colleagues including President Donald Trump. LaMalfa, who was focused on water and agricultural issues during his time in office, had recently faced challenges in Congress. With LaMalfa's death, the Republican majority in the House of Representatives is now precariously slim.
Doug LaMalfa, a Republican Congressman from California, has died unexpectedly at age 65, colleagues announced on Tuesday.
President Donald Trump offered a tribute to LaMalfa, expressing tremendous sorrow at the loss of a great member - a great, great, great member.
The congressman's cause of death was not immediately clear. LaMalfa, a former rice farmer, was elected to Congress in 2013 and primarily focused on water and agriculture issues during his tenure.
His death has further compromised the already thin Republican majority in the US House of Representatives, following the resignation of Marjorie Taylor Greene just a day prior.
He was a fantastic person, Trump stated. He voted with me 100% of the time. Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer hailed LaMalfa as a staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America.
LaMalfa held a degree in agriculture business from California Polytechnic State University. He had previously served as a state lawmaker and fought for assistance for fire victims in his northern California district, while advocating for farmers and ranchers.
With LaMalfa's passing and Greene's resignation, Republicans now hold a 218-213 majority, allowing only a narrow margin for error in votes. Interestingly, hours after his death was announced, news broke that Indiana Congressman Jim Baird was recovering from a car accident, expected to make a full recovery.
Currently, there are four vacancies in the House, with Democrats likely to fill two in upcoming special elections in Texas and New Jersey. Under California law, Governor Gavin Newsom will have 14 days to call for a special election to fill LaMalfa’s seat.
