Who Was Rep. Doug LaMalfa? – Douglas Lee LaMalfa was a respected American politician, farmer, and public servant best known for his service as a United States Representative for California’s 1st congressional district. He served in Congress from 2013 until he passed away in January 2026. A committed member of the Republican Party, LaMalfa built his political identity around agriculture, rural development, water policy, and conservative fiscal principles.
His congressional district covered a vast portion of interior Northern California, including cities such as Chico, Redding, and Susanville. Over the years, he became a familiar and influential voice for farming communities and rural residents who felt underrepresented in statewide politics.
Rep. Doug LaMalfa Biography
| Profile Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Douglas Lee LaMalfa |
| Date of Birth | July 2, 1960 |
| Place of Birth | Oroville, California, USA |
| Age | 65 years |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Political Party | Republican Party |
| Wife | Jill LaMalfa |
| Children | Four |
| Occupation | Politician, Businessman, Farmer |
| Net Worth | At least $3.3 million |
| Congressional Service | 2013 – 2026 |
| Cause of Passed Away | Heart attack during surgery |
Early Life and Background
Doug LaMalfa was born on July 2, 1960, in Oroville, California. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in agriculture, which played a defining role in shaping his worldview. As a fourth-generation rice farmer, LaMalfa learned the value of hard work, land stewardship, and community responsibility from an early age.
He attended Biggs High School, where he graduated in 1978. After high school, he pursued higher education at California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo (Cal Poly), earning a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business in 1982. His academic background strengthened his understanding of farming economics and rural enterprise, skills he later carried into public office.
Age at the Time He Passed Away
Doug LaMalfa was 65 years old at the time he passed away in January 2026. His death marked the end of more than two decades of active involvement in California and national politics.
Political Career Journey
California State Legislature
Before entering Congress, LaMalfa served in the California State Assembly from 2002 to 2008, representing the 2nd Assembly District. During this period, he focused on agricultural policy, taxation, and rural infrastructure.
He later moved to the California State Senate, serving the 4th Senate District from 2010 to 2012. His time in the state legislature helped establish him as a consistent advocate for conservative policies and the interests of Northern California.
U.S. House of Representatives
In 2013, Doug LaMalfa was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California’s 1st congressional district. He held this position until he passed away in 2026.
While in Congress, he worked on issues such as:
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Agricultural sustainability
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Water rights and irrigation policy
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Federal land management
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Tax reform
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Energy development
His agricultural background allowed him to speak with authority on farming-related legislation, earning him respect among rural lawmakers and constituents.
Wife and Family Life
Doug LaMalfa was married to his wife, Jill LaMalfa. Their marriage remained largely private, reflecting his preference to keep family matters out of public attention. Together, they raised four children, maintaining strong family values despite the demands of political life.
LaMalfa often spoke about the importance of family, faith, and community, values that influenced both his personal life and public service.
Religion
Doug LaMalfa practiced Christianity. His faith shaped his moral outlook and political principles, particularly on issues related to family, ethics, and community responsibility. While he did not frequently center religion in political rhetoric, it remained a guiding force in his life.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Doug LaMalfa had an estimated net worth of at least $3.3 million. His wealth came from a combination of:
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Agricultural business operations
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Congressional earnings
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Long-term investments
As a farmer-turned-politician, his financial profile reflected decades of work in both private enterprise and public service rather than sudden political enrichment.
Cause of Passed Away
Doug LaMalfa passed away after suffering a heart attack during surgery in January 2026. News of his passing brought widespread reactions from colleagues, constituents, and leaders across party lines, many of whom praised his dedication to public service and rural America.
Public Image and Legacy
Doug LaMalfa was widely regarded as a steady and principled lawmaker. Supporters admired his consistency, agricultural expertise, and commitment to Northern California. Even critics acknowledged his deep connection to his district and his willingness to stand firmly by his beliefs.
His passing left a significant gap in representation for California’s 1st congressional district and marked the conclusion of a career devoted to advocacy for rural communities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old was Rep. Doug LaMalfa when he passed away?
He was 65 years old at the time he passed away in January 2026.
Who was Doug LaMalfa’s wife?
He was married to Jill LaMalfa.
How many children did Doug LaMalfa have?
He had four children with his wife.
What was Doug LaMalfa’s net worth?
His estimated net worth was at least $3.3 million.
What caused Doug LaMalfa to pass away?
He passed away after suffering a heart attack during surgery.
What was Doug LaMalfa known for?
He was known for representing California’s 1st congressional district and advocating for agriculture, water policy, and rural communities.
Conclusion
Doug LaMalfa’s life reflected dedication to agriculture, family, and public service. From his roots as a fourth-generation rice farmer to his years in Congress, he remained closely connected to the people he represented. His passing in 2026 closed an important chapter in Northern California politics, but his legacy continues through the policies he championed and the communities he served
