SACRAMENTO (January 6, 2026) — Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick (R-Alturas) today issued the following statement on the passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa, a longtime representative of Northern California and a leading advocate for rural communities:
Congressman Doug LaMalfa dedicated his life to public service and to fighting for the people of Northern California. From agriculture and water to wildfire mitigation, forestry, and rural infrastructure, Doug understood the challenges facing our communities because he lived them. Doug LaMalfa was no ordinary Washington figure. He was a man rooted in the land, shaped by rural life, and proud to carry those values with him every day. He didn’t perform rural life — he lived it, and he wore it with pride.
— Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick
LaMalfa represented California’s northernmost region for over a decade in Congress, where he became known as a strong, consistent voice for farmers, ranchers, forested counties, and rural families. His work on behalf of Secure Rural Schools funding, wildfire prevention, and federal land policy provided critical support to communities that depend on stability, local control, and responsible land management.
“Doug never stopped advocating for the people who grow our food, steward our forests, and keep rural California running,” Hadwick continued. “He brought integrity, grit, and a deep sense of responsibility to his work. His leadership will be deeply missed.”
Assemblywoman Hadwick extended her condolences to LaMalfa’s family, colleagues, and staff, as well as the many constituents whose lives were touched by his service.
“Our region has lost a dedicated champion,” Hadwick said. “We honor Congressman LaMalfa’s legacy by continuing the work he believed in — fighting for rural communities and ensuring Northern California is never forgotten.”
In honor of Congressman LaMalfa, flags at the State Capitol will be flown at half-staff in accordance with the Governor’s order.
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Assemblywoman Hadwick represents the 1st Assembly District, which includes portions of Amador, El Dorado, and Placer counties, along with Alpine, Lassen, Modoc, Nevada, Plumas, Shasta, Sierra, and Siskiyou counties.