Flags at Half-Staff for Congressman Doug LaMalfa

President Donald Trump has announced that flags will be flown at half-staff nationwide until Wednesday night to honor Doug LaMalfa, a Congressman from California, whom he referred to as a “true American patriot.”

Trump expressed his condolences on Truth Social, stating, “Doug will be sorely missed.”

LaMalfa, who represented California’s 1st Congressional District since 2013, unexpectedly passed away on Tuesday morning.

Mark Spanagel, LaMalfa’s chief of staff, commented, “Early this morning, Congressman Doug LaMalfa went home to be with the Lord. He leaves behind a lasting legacy of servant leadership and kindness to the Northern States.”

The circumstances surrounding LaMalfa’s death are still under investigation. A friend mentioned that he suffered from a local aortic aneurysm and passed away during surgery at Enloe Health in Chico.

A fourth-generation rice farmer and business owner, LaMalfa was dedicated to addressing rural issues.

As for what comes next, California Governor Gavin Newsom is required to call a special election to fill LaMalfa’s vacant seat within 14 days. Under state law, this election should take place on a Tuesday, occurring within 126 to 140 days following the vacancy’s declaration.

Paul Mitchell, a state elections expert, highlighted that LaMalfa’s special election would still adhere to the previous electoral map.

Mitchell further explained, “If a vacancy occurs after rezoning but before the new line is in use, an alternate election will be held on the old line.”

The newly approved Proposition 50 redistricting map is expected to come into effect during the 2026 midterm elections, a map designed to bring more Democratic representation to Washington. LaMalfa’s district, which extends from the Oregon border down to near Sacramento, will encompass broader areas and potentially attract additional Democratic voters.