Farming Community Reacts To the Passing Of Rep LaMalfa

Representative Doug LaMalfa passed away early Tuesday at the age of 65.  Not only did LaMalfa represent northern California for over a decade, he was one of the few active farmers serving in Congress.  Most recently, LaMalfa served as the Chair of the Congressional Western Caucus.

"I am devasted to hear about the passing of my good friend and fellow farmer, Rep. Doug LaMalfa," said central Washington Representative and former Congressional Western Caucus chair Dan Newhouse.  "Doug spent over a decade serving the good people of California’s First Congressional District, fighting to protect the rural way of life in his communities, and across our Nation. At the end of last Congress, he was unanimously elected Chairman of the Western Caucus, which is a testament to his dedication in defending the western way of life. I send my most sincere condolences to his family, friends, and staff during this incredibly difficult time."

"Penny and I are devastated by the news of the passing of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, a champion of rural America and a true friend," said House Ag Chairman GT Thompson.  "We were looking forward to hosting Doug at the Pennsylvania Farm Show this upcoming weekend. I have fond memories of spending time with Doug, traveling and engaging with the men and women who feed this great country. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this trying time. Be with the Lord, my brother."

"As a farmer, Rep. LaMalfa was a stalwart defender of the agriculture industry, with a deep understanding of the needs and challenges faced by rural communities," said Western Growers President and CEO Dave Pugila.  "He was a dedicated public servant who stepped into the arena, both during his tenure in the California legislature and later in the U.S. Congress, for all the right reasons. It was never about Doug. It was always about his constituents, his rural communities, and working for common sense policies. He worked hard and never let the frustrations of this era of sharp partisanship deter him from pressing on. The members and staff of Western Growers send our deepest condolences to Doug's family, friends and staff. He will be greatly missed." 

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