LaMalfa, 65, died suddenly on Tuesday during an emergency surgery. He was a staunch ally of President Donald Trump and a reliable vote for Johnson's priorities. His death means Johnson can only lose two Republican votes and still pass legislation along party lines. Trump rallied behind Johnson during a retreat for House GOP lawmakers at the Trump-Kennedy Center on Tuesday. "A lot of times they’ll say, ‘I wish Mike were tougher,’" Trump told assembled Republicans. "He’s tough. He’s tough as anybody in the room, actually. But can’t be tough when you have a majority of three, and now sadly, a little bit less than that."

 

‏Rep LaMalfa's death further shrinks Republican House majority

‏The death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Calif., has shrunk the Republican majority in the House of Representatives to the minimum of 218 seats, presenting fresh challenges for Speaker Mike Johnson as the party heads into an election year.

‏LaMalfa, 65, died suddenly on Tuesday during an emergency surgery. He was a staunch ally of President Donald Trump and a reliable vote for Johnson's priorities. His death means Johnson can only lose two Republican votes and still pass legislation along party lines.

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‏Trump rallied behind Johnson during a retreat for House GOP lawmakers at the Trump-Kennedy Center on Tuesday.

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‏"A lot of times they’ll say, ‘I wish Mike were tougher,’" Trump told assembled Republicans. "He’s tough. He’s tough as anybody in the room, actually. But can’t be tough when you have a majority of three, and now sadly, a little bit less than that."

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