James Gallagher, California Assembly Republican Leader and representative for the state’s Third Assembly District, shared a series of posts reflecting on the passing of his mentor, Doug LaMalfa. The tweets highlighted Gallagher’s personal connection to LaMalfa and his perspective on public service.
On January 6, 2026, Gallagher wrote: “I’m in shock. My mentor, a man who was like a big brother to me is suddenly gone. Doug LaMalfa was a one of a kind, humble and dedicated public servant. I’m lost and can’t imagine life, public service or politics without Doug. His focus was always on the people of his”.
The following day, Gallagher recalled an event involving both himself and LaMalfa: “I remember that day. It was when @POTUS came to the Palisades. Doug and I barely made it in past the security to get to the Roundtable discussion at the fire house. On the way out we ran into you. Doug had a great collegiality with his LA colleagues and it really showed that” (January 7, 2026).
Gallagher continued his reflections on January 8, 2026: “If everybody represented their district like @RepLaMalfa did, we’d be in a much better place.”
Gallagher represents California’s Third Assembly District—which includes Butte, Glenn, Placer, Sutter, Tehama and Yuba counties—and maintains offices in Chico and Sacramento (official website). As Assembly Republican Leader (official website), he provides constituent services such as assistance with state agencies and community resources for those living in these areas.
His comments regarding LaMalfa come within this context of legislative service to local communities across Northern California.
