Rep. Doug LaMalfa, Longtime California Republican Congressman, Dies at 65; Special Election to Fill Vacant Seat

Chico, California - January 7, 2026 -- Republican U.S. Representative Doug LaMalfa, who represented California's 1st Congressional District for over a decade, died on January 6, 2026, at the age of 65 following a medical emergency and complications during surgery.

LaMalfa, a fourth-generation rice farmer from Northern California, experienced a medical emergency at his home on January 5. He was transported to Enloe Medical Center in Chico, where he underwent emergency surgery but did not survive the procedure. Reports indicate he suffered an aneurysm followed by a heart attack, though an autopsy is ongoing to determine the official cause of death.

First elected to Congress in 2012, LaMalfa was known for his advocacy on water policy, forestry, and rural issues affecting his heavily Republican district, which spans much of Northern California. A staunch ally of President Donald Trump, he served seven terms in the House and had previously been a member of the California State Senate and Assembly.

His sudden passing has further narrowed the Republican majority in the U.S. House of Representatives to 218-213, amid existing vacancies, intensifying challenges for House Speaker Mike Johnson as the party advances its agenda.

Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum. President Trump described LaMalfa as a dedicated public servant, while California Governor Gavin Newsom issued a statement expressing condolences to his family and noting his commitment to rural communities.

Under California law, Governor Newsom is required to proclaim a special election within 14 days of the vacancy to fill the remainder of LaMalfa's term, which ends on January 3, 2027. The special election must occur 126 to 140 days after the proclamation, likely in late spring or early summer 2026.

California's special elections use a nonpartisan blanket primary system, where all candidates appear on a single ballot. If no candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, the top two advance to a runoff. The election will be conducted under the current district boundaries, which strongly favor Republicans.

The district will also participate in the regular 2026 primaries and general election under newly redrawn maps.

LaMalfa is survived by his family. Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.