Republican Rep. Doug LaMalfa dies at 65
CNBC1 day
Rep. LaMalfa Dies at 65, GOP Majority Narrows to 218-213
Is LaMalfa's death a chance for Democrats to seize power, or will Republicans maintain the seat even after the loss of this principled conservative?
Above: The late U.S. Rep. Doug LaMalfa on Feb. 20, 2025. Image credit: Patrick T. Fallon/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
This tragedy is the loss of a principled conservative who championed rural America, farmers and constitutional governance against coastal elites. His consistent advocacy for Northern California communities and alignment with Republican priorities demonstrated true legislative service over political spectacle. The district remains solidly Republican, ensuring his legacy continues through a special election victory.
Democratic narrative
Johnson's razor-thin majority has effectively vanished, creating an opportunity to advance Democratic priorities. After LaMalfa's death, combined with other Republican defections, the GOP will barely be able to muster votes while Trump's waning popularity accelerates their collapse. Democrats must seize this moment to pass legislation, release Epstein files and rein in executive overreach before the walls close in on Trump completely.
Metaculus Prediction
Public Figures
The Controversies
Go Deeper
Political split
LEFT
RIGHT
More neutral political stance articles
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation. All rights reserved.Version 6.18.0
© 2026 Improve the News Foundation.
All rights reserved.
Version 6.18.0