Yuba-Sutter Times

Today, the Congressional Western Caucus Executive Committee elected Doug LaMalfa as its Chairman for the 119th Congress. The decision was unanimous. LaMalfa, who has served as Executive Vice Chair, will succeed Dan Newhouse in this role.

Chairman Newhouse expressed his support for LaMalfa's new position: “I want to offer my sincere congratulations to my good friend Doug LaMalfa on his election as Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus,” he said. He praised LaMalfa's commitment to public lands, forest management, agriculture, and energy production. Newhouse also reflected on his own tenure: “It has been an honor to serve as Chairman of the Western Caucus for the last four years, and I am excited for the Caucus’ future under its new leadership.”

LaMalfa shared his gratitude upon being elected: “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve as the new Chairman of the Congressional Western Caucus and to continue fighting for rural America.” He acknowledged Newhouse's contributions and expressed readiness to build on them: “Chairman Newhouse has done an admirable job elevating the issues that matter most to the West...He’s laid a solid foundation for the Caucus, and I’m ready to build on his accomplishments as we tackle the challenges ahead.”

LaMalfa is a fourth-generation rice farmer from Northern California with a background in agriculture and business from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. His political career includes service in both California's State Assembly and Senate before joining Congress in 2012. In Washington, he has advocated for limited government, fiscal restraint, lower taxes, and reducing wildfire risks through legislative efforts.

His district has faced numerous wildfires recently. As a response, he sponsored legislation aimed at recovery efforts and changing forest policies.

LaMalfa emphasized that government should operate efficiently while only doing what individuals cannot do themselves.