Doug LaMalfa, a Republican Congressman from California, has died unexpectedly at age 65, colleagues announced on Tuesday.
President Donald Trump offered a tribute to LaMalfa, expressing sorrow at the loss of a great member - a great, great, great member.
The cause of death for the congressman was not immediately disclosed. LaMalfa was a former rice farmer who was elected to Congress in 2013, focusing on water and agriculture issues during his tenure.
His passing has tightened an already precarious Republican majority in the US House of Representatives, which now has only a two-seat cushion following the recent resignation of former Trump ally Marjorie Taylor Greene.
He was a fantastic person, Trump said, highlighting that LaMalfa voted with him 100% of the time. Minnesota Congressman Tom Emmer recognized him as a staunch advocate for his constituents and rural America.
LaMalfa earned a degree in agricultural business from California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo and served as a state lawmaker prior to his congressional election. He was known for advocating for help for fire victims in his northern California district and for his efforts to protect American farmers from overregulation.
Following LaMalfa's death, an additional Republican congressman, Indiana's Jim Baird, was reported to be recuperating after a car wreck but is expected to make a full recovery.
Currently, there are four vacancies in the House, with Democrats favored to fill two in upcoming special elections in Texas and New Jersey. Under California law, Governor Gavin Newsom is tasked with calling for a special election to fill LaMalfa's seat within 14 days.
