> At a Glance
> – Rep. Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), a staunch Trump ally, has died at age 65
> – GOP House margin narrows to 218-213; special election required
> – President Trump praised his 100% voting loyalty: “I never had to call”
> – Why it matters: Control of closely-divided House now even tighter
Rep. Doug LaMalfa, the seven-term Northern California Republican who never missed a vote for President Trump’s agenda, has died. His passing reduces the GOP’s already-slim House majority to a five-seat edge.
Trump’s Tribute on Capitol Hill
Speaking to House Republicans, the president called LaMalfa “a 100% ally” and said the congressman would want the meeting to continue despite the loss.
> “I was really saddened by his passing,” Trump said. “With Doug, I never had to call.”
He noted LaMalfa wasn’t a “3 a.m. phone call” lawmaker, yet always voted with him.
District & Political Fallout
LaMalfa represented California’s 1st District, stretching from Redding to north of Sacramento. A special election must be called by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom; the vote could be delayed until the state’s June 2026 primary.
- First elected in 2012, LaMalfa logged at least one floor speech on 81 days in 2025, third-most in the chamber.
- The recent redistricting ballot measure backed by Democrats had already targeted his seat.
**House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries observed a moment of silence for LaMalfa during a Jan. 6 anniversary event.
Colleagues Remember
NRCC Chair Richard Hudson called him “a principled conservative” who fought for rural communities.
Former state-legislature chief of staff David Reade recalled:
> “He would show up at the smallest events… drive hundreds of miles to be there.”
Key Takeaways
- LaMalfa’s death leaves House GOP with 218 seats versus 213 for Democrats
- Special election timeline uncertain, potentially not until June 2026
- Trump praised the congressman’s unwavering loyalty and voting record
- Colleagues highlight his commitment to rural constituents
The congressman’s passing adds fresh uncertainty to the razor-thin balance of power in Washington.
