Doug LaMalfa Unexpectedly Passes Away

by ROGER GITLIN, Eye on Del Norte

Powerful North State Congressman Doug LaMalfa passed away Tuesday as a result of complications from surgery to remove an aneurysm. He was 65.

The seven-term congressman represented the expansive District 1, spanning from his rice farm residence near Oroville to the Oregon and northern Nevada borders. The Butte County Sheriff’s Department picked up LaMalfa at his ranch Monday evening, where he was experiencing breathing difficulties. He was transferred to Enloe Medical Center in Chico.

Medical staff diagnosed an aneurysm and performed surgery, but Rep. LaMalfa suffered a heart attack and died during the procedure.

LaMalfa was a powerful voice for farmers and conservatives across Northern California.

He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2012 following service in the State Assembly and State Senate. He served on the Agriculture Committee and chaired the Forestry and Horticulture Subcommittee. He also served on the Natural Resources and Transportation and Infrastructure Committees.

Doug LaMalfa was an ardent supporter of President Trump.

LaMalfa’s death reduces the Republican margin in the House from 218–213.

Governor Newsom has 14 days to call a special election to fill the vacant CA-1 seat. The winner of the special election will serve the remainder of LaMalfa’s term.