U.S. Rep. Doug LaMalfa, who represented Northern California’s 1st Congressional District, including Colusa County, died Tuesday at age 65. Photo courtesy of the Office of Rep. Doug LaMalfa

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA, CA (MPG) - U.S. Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a longtime Republican lawmaker who represented much of Northern California, 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.

In an official media release, Butte County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) states that their office received a call at approximately 6:50 p.m. on the evening of Jan. 5, from the residence of Congressman LaMalfa regarding a medical emergency.

Medical personnel arrived at the residence, and the Congressman was transported to Enloe Hospital in Chico for treatment.

“Upon arrival at Enloe Hospital, Congress LaMalfa was taken into emergency surgery. Congressman LaMalfa passed away during the surgical procedure,” stated the Butte County Sheriff’s Office release.

The Congressman’s Chief of Staff, Mark Spannagel put out a brief announcement on behalf of LaMalfa’s office sharing the unprecedented news and commenting on the legacy he left behind him.

“Congressman LaMalfa cared deeply for the people he served and worked tirelessly to hold the government to its word to fix our failing forests, build water storage and leave people to be free to choose what is best for themselves. His tragic and unexpected passing leaves a deep impact on many.”

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer confirmed LaMalfa’s death in a statement Tuesday Jan. 6.

“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.”

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.

LaMalfa was born in Oroville and graduated from Biggs High School, in 1978 according to his biography on Congress.gov. He was a fourth-generation rice farmer and business owner that resided in Northern California.

LaMalfa is survived by his wife, Jill, four children, and one grandchild.