Former U.S. Representative Mia Love, the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, passed away Sunday at her home in Saratoga Springs, Utah. She was 49.
Love’s family announced her death in a statement shared on her X account, revealing that she had been battling brain cancer and had recently stopped responding to treatment. She had undergone immunotherapy as part of a clinical trial at Duke University. “With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully,” her family wrote.
Born Ludmya Bourdeau to Haitian immigrants, Love rose to prominence as a trailblazing figure in American politics. Her career began in 2003 when she was elected to the Saratoga Springs City Council. She later became the city’s mayor before winning a seat in Congress in 2014, representing Utah’s 4th Congressional District for two terms.
Love’s election marked a historic moment as she defied expectations in Utah, an overwhelmingly white and conservative state. “My election proved the doubters wrong—people who thought a Black, Republican, Mormon woman couldn’t win,” she said after her victory.
During her tenure in Congress from 2015 to 2019, Love served on the Financial Services Committee and championed issues like immigration reform and reducing government regulations. She was also known for distancing herself from Donald Trump during his 2016 presidential campaign.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox mourned her passing, calling her “a true trailblazer and visionary leader” whose legacy inspired many. “Her courage and grace left a lasting impact on our state,” he said.
Love is survived by her husband, Jason Love, and their three children. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
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