U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif.) died on Tuesday at the age of 65. His death, along with a recent resignation, has altered the composition of the U.S. House of Representatives, narrowing the Republican majority. A special election will be scheduled to fill the vacant seat.
Death and Initial Impact
U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa, a Republican from California, died on Tuesday at 65 years old. The news was confirmed by House Republican officials and his colleagues. The cause of death has not been released. LaMalfa had represented California's 1st Congressional District since 2013.
Congressional Career and Background
First elected to Congress in 2013, Representative LaMalfa served on the House Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees. He also chaired the Congressional Western Caucus. During his tenure, his work focused on issues related to water and agriculture, including efforts to assist fire victims in his district and initiatives supporting American farmers and ranchers.
Prior to his service in Congress, LaMalfa was a state lawmaker. He held a degree in agriculture business from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo and worked as a rice farmer.
House Composition and Vacancies
LaMalfa's death has changed the numerical balance of the U.S. House of Representatives. Following the resignation of Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) on Monday, the House comprised 219 Republicans and 213 Democrats. With LaMalfa's passing, the Republican count is now 218, resulting in a 218-213 Republican majority, which represents a two-vote margin.
There are currently four vacancies in the House of Representatives. Special elections are scheduled for two other vacant seats in Texas in late January and New Jersey in the spring.
Special Election Process
California state election laws require Governor Gavin Newsom to announce a special election to fill LaMalfa's vacant seat within 14 days of the announcement of his death. This election must then take place no more than 140 days after Newsom's proclamation, potentially scheduling the election for June.
Statements
Former President Donald Trump acknowledged LaMalfa's death, describing him as "a great member." House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) also commented on the passing via social media, characterizing LaMalfa as "a staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America."