Arizona Republicans Mourn Passing of Doug LaMalfa

U.S. Capitol

Several of Arizona's Republican Congressmen took to social media to express their condolences to the family of Representative Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), who passed away this week.

"Early this morning Congressman Doug LaMalfa returned home to the Lord," said Rep. LaMalfa's chief of staff Mark Spannagel in a statement. "Congressman LaMalfa cared deeply for the people he served and worked tirelessly to hold the government to its word to fix our failing forests, build water storage, and leave people to be free to choose what is best for themselves."

The cause of death has not been released.

Representative Andy Biggs (R-AZ) described Rep. LaMalfa as "a happy warrior who cared immensely about his country, his state, and his constituents."

"A few years ago, he took time out of his schedule to come with me to Arizona to understand the border crisis and its impact on our state," he recalled. "Since then, I've thoroughly enjoyed working with him on a myriad of policies and issues that uniquely affect the West. Doug was a true friend, and we will all miss him in Congress. My team and I pray for his soul and his family in this difficult time."

Representative David Schweikert (R-AZ) also shared his thoughts, writing, "I’m deeply saddened by the passing of Doug LaMalfa. Doug was a principled public servant and a tireless advocate for rural communities. He never forgot who he worked for. Please join me in praying for his family, his staff, and the people of Northern California as they grieve this loss."

Representative Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ) described that he was "saddened and shocked to hear of Doug's passing. [LaMalfa] was one of the good ones. Laura and I are praying for his wife Jill, their family, and his community."

Representative Paul Gosar (R-AZ) added that he was "very saddened to learn of the passing of my friend @RepLaMalfa. My thoughts are with his family. I will miss you, Doug. RIP.

Representative Eli Crane (R-AZ) called the news "tragic" and called for his followers to "pray for his family."

LaMalfa is survived by his wife, Jill, and four children.

Grayson Bakich

Florida born and raised, Grayson Bakich is a recent recipient of a Master’s Degree in Political Science at the University of Central Florida. His thesis examined recent trends in political polarization and how this leads into justification of violence.