Asm. James Gallagher (R–Yuba City), the former Assembly Republican Leader, launched his campaign for Congress on Wednesday to serve out the remainder of Doug LaMalfa’s term.
Gallagher will run in the upcoming special election that was called after LaMalfa passed away.
Driving the news: Gallagher is finishing up his final term in the Assembly after first being elected in 2014.
- A former staffer of LaMalfa, Gallagher is a lawyer by trade and also a partner in his family’s farming business.
- He served as the Minority Leader in the Assembly from February 2022 to September 2025.
What we’re watching: A date for the special election to fill the vacancy in Congressional District 1 has not been announced by the state yet.
- Whoever wins will serve in Washington D.C. through the end of the year.
What they’re saying: “Doug LaMalfa was my mentor, friend and a representative of the People in the truest sense of the word,” Gallagher said. “Doug’s focus was always on his constituents and the American values he cherished so deeply. His death was a shock to all of us, and leaves a great void of leadership here in the North State.”
- Gallagher continued, “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.”
- Shortly after his announcement, the entire California Republican Congressional delegation endorsed Gallagher.
- The delegation said there is no one more qualified to serve out the remainder of the term than Gallagher.
- “A strong conservative who is dedicated to serving his community, James has a proven track record of delivering results for hardworking families, small businesses, and farmers,” the delegation said. “He will fight for common sense and be a strong voice for the people of Northern California. We are proud to endorse James Gallagher for Congress and look forward to working with him in Washington. He has our full support.”
