This afternoon's post is available to all readers (usually, afternoon posts are paywalled). I have some thoughts in the video above, which I expand on in the writing below.
There Are No Words, But I Try Here…
This morning, I woke up to the heartbreaking news that my friend, Congressman Doug LaMalfa, had unexpectedly passed away. It’s the kind of news that leaves you stunned, and it’s hard to express what his loss means to me and to everyone who knew him. Doug was more than a public servant. He was a truly good person. He loved his family, valued his friends, cared deeply about those he represented, and believed strongly in the responsibility and promise of our country.
I have known Doug for more than three decades. We first met in the early 2000s, when he ran for the State Assembly. From the beginning, there was an easy connection between us. What started as a political relationship quickly became a real friendship. Politics brought us together, but it was Doug’s character that sustained that bond over the years. He was sincere, steady, and grounded in the values he lived every day, not just the ones he spoke about publicly.
This loss is tough to process because Doug was still very much a part of my daily life. At 65, he was far too young. We spoke regularly, and as many longtime friends do now, we often commented on each other’s social media posts. Those brief exchanges may seem small, but they were constant reminders of a shared history and a shared concern for the future of California and the country we both loved.
Doug was a strong conservative leader for the North State and for America, but he never sought attention or spoke just to be heard. He understood his region because he was truly part of it. He respected his district, always fought for their interests, and never forgot his roots. His service was always loyal to his home, his principles, and his people, and he stayed true to himself.
What made Doug truly special was not only his record but the way he treated those around him. He valued relationships. He listened carefully. He remembered names and details that mattered. His staff was not simply a group of people who worked for him. They were his extended family, and he treated them with loyalty, trust, and respect. That says as much about Doug as any title he ever held.
My heart goes out to Jill, to his children, and to his entire family. I also grieve for his staff, his colleagues, and his many friends across California and beyond. Doug LaMalfa leaves behind a legacy of service, decency, and quiet strength. He will be deeply missed and remembered with gratitude and affection by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
I was lamenting Doug’s passing this morning with my friend San Diego Supervisor Joel Anderson, who served with Doug in the State Legislature. They were roommates. I have many fond memories of Joel, Doug, former legislator Mark Wyland, and me going out for dinner, hitting the reception circuit, and then getting massive ice cream portions. Our conversations ranged from policy to politics to pop culture. But they were always interesting, and now they will remain treasured memories for all three of us, thanks to Doug.
Rest In Peace, my friend.
The President Weighs In
President Trump has made some public remarks about the passing of the Congressman so I thought I would share this video clip…
