The sudden death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa on Jan. 6, 2026, sent shockwaves through Washington and beyond. At 65 years old, the longtime California congressman passed away following a medical emergency and surgery, leaving behind a testimony rooted deeply in faith, Scripture and conviction.
LaMalfa, who represented California’s 1st Congressional District since 2013, was known nationally for his conservative voting record. Yet for those who listened closely, his identity was not defined merely by policy positions, but by a biblical worldview that shaped how he understood leadership, morality and service. His passing reduced the Republican majority in the House to 218–213, triggering a special election and injecting new uncertainty into an already volatile political season.
But beyond the numbers, many are revisiting LaMalfa’s words — particularly remarks he made on the House floor during National Bible Week, now circulating widely online.
During the National Bible Week in 2017, LaMalfa spoke plainly and unapologetically about the role of faith and the Bible in public life. He emphasized that Scripture is not a relic of the past, but a living guide meant to shape conscience, character, and conduct.
“Jesus Himself used Scripture that was written before Him. Jesus never belittled the Scripture, as some modern critics do, or set it aside,” LaMalfa stated. “He believed every word of Scripture. All the prophecies concerning Himself were fulfilled…The committed task of all writing of the Word of God, though they were men, was guided by the infallible Holy Spirit.”
Rather than framing the Bible as a political tool, LaMalfa described it as a moral compass — one that calls leaders to humility, justice and accountability before God. He spoke of the responsibility believers carry in every sphere, reminding listeners that faith cannot be compartmentalized.
That conviction defined his career. A fourth-generation rice farmer before entering politics, LaMalfa often spoke of stewardship — of land, of family and of freedom — using language shaped by Scripture rather than slogans. Whether addressing religious liberty, life issues or the role of government, his positions reflected a belief that truth is not determined by cultural trends, but by God’s Word.
Tributes following his death reflected that legacy. Fellow lawmakers expressed sorrow not only at losing a colleague, but at losing a man known for consistency and principle. Rep. Don Bacon publicly shared his grief, honoring LaMalfa as a faithful servant whose presence will be deeply missed. He took to X where he wrote, “Doug was a great colleague and friend. I know he had strong Christian faith and was a gentleman to everyone around him. Our condolences to [the] family and friends.”
I’m so sad to read this. Doug was a great colleague and friend. I know he had strong Christian faith and was a gentleman to everyone around him. Our condolences to family and friends. https://t.co/iv3zR2SlZu
— Rep. Don Bacon 🇺🇸✈️🏍️⭐️🎖️ (@RepDonBacon) January 6, 2026
In a time when faith is often sidelined, LaMalfa’s life offered a steady reminder that the Bible still matters, conviction still carries weight and living out one’s faith in public is never without cost—or purpose.
Prepared by Charisma Media Staff.
