WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) mourns the sudden passing of Congressman Doug LaMalfa (R-CA), who died on January 6, 2026, at the age of 65. Congressman LaMalfa was a proud member of the Italian American Congressional Delegation and a steadfast champion for Italian American values and heritage.

Throughout his distinguished 13-year career in Congress representing California’s 1st Congressional District, Congressman LaMalfa was a valued participant in NIAF events both on Capitol Hill and in Washington, D.C. As a member of the bicameral and bipartisan Italian American Congressional Delegation (IACD), he stood alongside his colleagues in celebrating and preserving Italian American contributions to our nation.

Congressman LaMalfa exemplified the Italian American values of hard work, family, and service to community. As a fourth-generation rice farmer from Northern California, he brought the authentic voice of rural America to Congress while never forgetting his Italian heritage.

“Doug LaMalfa was a true friend to the Italian American community,” said NIAF President and CEO Robert Allegrini. “His presence at our events and his commitment to the Italian American Congressional Delegation demonstrated his pride in his heritage and his dedication to strengthening the bonds between Italy and the United States. He will be deeply missed.”

As Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus, Congressman LaMalfa was a powerful advocate for the values and priorities that resonate throughout Italian American communities across the nation. His sudden passing is a tremendous loss not only for his constituents in Northern California but for all who knew him as a man of principle, integrity, and genuine warmth.

NIAF extends its deepest condolences to Congressman LaMalfa’s wife Jill, their four children, and all who knew and loved him.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

NIAF:
Gabriella Mileti
Director of Special Programs and PR
202-939-3116
gmileti@niaf.org

Barabino & Partners USA:
Marco Lastrico
Partner – CEO
212-308-8710
m.lastrico@barabinousa.com

About NIAF

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) is a non-profit organization based in the United States that promotes the Italian culture and heritage. Founded in 1975, NIAF has been a leading advocate for Italian Americans, preserving their legacy and promoting their contributions to the United States.