Trump’s White House Calls Out Newsom
The White House criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday after he scheduled an August 4 special election to fill the congressional seat left vacant by the death of Rep. Doug LaMalfa, raising concerns about prolonged lack of representation in a closely divided U.S. House.
White House officials argue the timeline could complicate President Donald Trump’s legislative agenda at a moment when every vote matters.
White House Raises Concerns About Timing
White House Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair said the governor waited until the final day permitted under California law to issue the election proclamation, resulting in a months-long vacancy in a district that has consistently leaned Republican.
Blair said the delay leaves voters without representation during an active legislative period and questioned why the process could not move more quickly.
Governor Newsom issued the proclamation last Friday, formally setting the election date for August 4 — the latest option available under state law.
Seat Vacant Following LaMalfa’s Death
California’s 1st Congressional District became vacant after Rep. Doug LaMalfa, 65, died following what local authorities described as a medical emergency. The district covers a large rural area of Northern California and includes many farming and forestry communities.
LaMalfa had represented the district since 2013 and was known for focusing on agriculture, water policy, land management, and wildfire prevention.
Narrow House Majority Raises Stakes
The timing of the special election is significant because House Republicans are currently operating with a slim majority. LaMalfa’s passing, combined with the recent resignation of Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, has reduced the GOP’s margin to just a few seats, according to Roll Call.
With margins this narrow, even a small number of absences can delay or block legislation, making scheduling decisions more consequential for congressional leadership.
Election Could Be Decided Earlier
Although the August 4 date is the final election, California’s process allows for a June 2 primary. If a candidate receives more than 50 percent of the vote in June, the seat could be filled earlier without the need for a runoff.
State law allows up to 200 days from the governor’s proclamation to complete the special election process.
National Republicans Respond
Republican leaders at the national level have criticized the extended timeline. Rep. Richard Hudson of North Carolina, chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee, said voters in the district are being left without representation for political reasons.
The district has favored Republican candidates in recent elections. In 2024, LaMalfa won reelection with roughly two-thirds of the vote against Democrat Rose Penelope Yee, according to certified results summarized by Ballotpedia.
Similar Disputes Elsewhere
The dispute mirrors a recent controversy in Texas, where Democrats criticized Republican Gov. Greg Abbott for scheduling a special election months after the March 2025 death of Democratic Rep. Sylvester Turner, highlighting how election timing has become a recurring political issue nationwide.
