The first Black Republican woman to serve in Congress, Mia Love, has died after a battle with cancer. Her family confirmed that she passed away at the age of 49. They expressed gratitude to the public for their prayers and support during her illness. Mia Love was deeply devoted to her husband and children, as well as to her work in public service.
Her passion and strength will continue to inspire future generations, according to the family’s statement. Born Ludmya Bourdeau Love in Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of Haitian immigrants. Her upbringing shaped her strong work ethic, deep faith, and personal resilience. She earned a performing arts degree from the University of Hartford, later moving to Utah, where she began her political career as a Saratoga Springs city councilor and then mayor.
The Republican Party recognized her conservative values and traditional background as important assets that helped her emerge as a significant leader. Love first ran for Congress in 2012 but lost. She won Utah’s 4th Congressional District in 2014.
This victory made her the first Black woman to represent the Republican Party in Congress. She served from 2015 to 2019, focusing on fiscal responsibility, limiting government size, and advocating for immigration reform. She introduced economic policies to support small businesses and aimed to reduce federal spending.
During her initial 2016 re-election win, her next race in 2018 was highly competitive, and she narrowly lost to Democrat Ben McAdams. After her time in Congress, Love remained politically active as a commentator for major news outlets and continued supporting conservative policies.
Her passing sparked tributes from political figures across the spectrum, demonstrating her impact on the national stage.
House Speaker Mike Johnson called her “a trailblazer whose commitment to public service will never be extinguished.” Former President Donald Trump, despite a complicated relationship with Love, acknowledged her contributions to the Republican cause.
Utah Governor Spencer Cox offered condolences, saying, “Mia Love’s courage and leadership were an inspiration to many. She shattered barriers for future generations, and her legacy will live on.”
She is survived by her husband, Jason Love, and their three children. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
Her passing marks a significant loss for American politics, particularly for Black conservatives and women in leadership. Mia Love’s legacy as a pioneering legislator, principled public servant, and advocate for conservative ideals will not be forgotten.
