Following the sudden passing of Representative Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), California Republican Assemblyman James Gallagher (AD-3) has announced his candidacy to assume LaMalfa’s position. Known for his strong opposition to Governor Gavin Newsom and the Democratic supermajority, Gallagher is stepping forward to fill the congressional seat.

Gallagher has already secured the endorsement of Jill LaMalfa, who publicly expressed her support for his bid.

Today, California State Assemblyman James Gallagher (R-AD3) announced he will be a candidate in the upcoming Special Election in the First Congressional District to fill the vacancy created by the tragic death of Congressman Doug LaMalfa.

“Doug La Malfa was my mentor, friend and a representative of the People in the truest sense of the word. Doug’s focus was always his constituents and the American values he cherished so deeply,” said Gallagher. “His death was a shock to all of us, and leaves a great void of leadership here in the North State. After much prayer and reflection with my own family, and with the LaMalfa family, and hearing from many of you, I have decided I will seek election to serve out the remaining months of Doug’s term. I will be a candidate in the Special Election for Congress in the First District.”

INBOX: Outgoing Assembly GOP Leader James Gallagher announces run in the #CA01 special election for the seat left vacant by Doug LaMalfa’s death, with Jill LaMalfa backing him. pic.twitter.com/lAiwCIRbcb

— Rob Pyers (@rpyers) January 14, 2026

Gallagher has Jill LaMalfa’s endorsement, and she issued this statement of support. 

In the midst of our sadness and navigation of such a profound loss, I find myself very concerned about who may replace Doug as our Representative in Washington, D.C. The tireless work and unimaginable hours spent away from family by Doug and his entire staff, cannot be left to end in vain.

I believe I am called to pull in and help access healing in our family as we find our way through the heartache and emptiness. Through much prayer, I believe there is a way forward. A way that leaves very little to change from how Doug would have done it, the way he would have cared for all of you in the 1st Congressional District of California.

James and Janna Gallagher and I have spent much time talking and praying about this decision. It’s a huge ask of them, especially while raising their young family. They well-know what leadership requires of them, and they have agreed this is the next place for them to serve. James will put “his hat in the ring”( a ‘Dougism’) and is willing to finish Doug’s current term through to January 1, 2027. The kids and I believe this is what Doug would have wanted. James has our full support.