Former U.S. Consultant Mia Love from Utah, who made historical past as the primary Black Republican congresswoman, handed away on the age of 49 after a brave battle with mind most cancers on March 23. Her household introduced her peaceable passing at her dwelling in Saratoga Springs, surrounded by family members. Utah Gov. Spencer Cox referred to her as a “true pal,” highlighting the profound impression she had on these round her.
Mia Love: A lifetime of service and management
Love’s political journey started greater than 20 years in the past when she was elected to the Saratoga Springs Metropolis Council in 2003. Her management abilities shortly propelled her to the function of mayor, the place she served with distinction. In 2014, Love made headlines when she received a congressional seat, defeating her opponent Doug Owens by roughly 7,500 votes. This victory was vital not just for her but in addition for the illustration of Black girls in politics, as she broke boundaries in a predominantly white and male-dominated discipline.
Her battle with most cancers
Love’s well being struggles turned public data as she underwent remedy for mind most cancers. She participated in a medical trial at Duke College’s mind tumor middle, receiving immunotherapy. Sadly, her daughter Abigale introduced in early March 2025 that Love was not responding to remedy, resulting in a heartbreaking conclusion for her household and supporters. She mentioned, “We have now shifted our focus from remedy to having fun with our remaining time along with her” in a publish on her mom’s X account.
A voice for unity and compassion
Regardless of her affiliation with the Republican Occasion, Love typically distanced herself from the divisive rhetoric related to former President Donald Trump and the MAGA motion. In a poignant op-ed for Deseret Information, she mirrored on her upbringing and the values that formed her, emphasizing respect, resilience, and willpower. Love’s dedication to those ideas resonated with many, as she sought to foster a extra compassionate political local weather.
Legacy and impression
Love, who was born Ludmya Bourdeau on Dec. 6, 1975, in Brooklyn, N.Y., persistently advocated for unity and honesty in political discourse all through her profession. She expressed a want for her life to make a significant distinction within the nation she liked. In her personal phrases, she hoped that her legacy would encourage others to protect the America she cherished, one grounded in liberty and freedom.
Her household launched a heartfelt assertion following her passing, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of affection and assist. They famous, “Within the midst of a celebration of her life and an avalanche of pleased reminiscences, Mia quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her phrases and imaginative and prescient at all times did, soared heavenward.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of Love — a fighter who confronted challenges head-on and impressed many alongside the best way.
Group response and tributes
The information of Love’s passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, associates, and constituents. Many have taken to social media to share their reminiscences and specific their condolences. Her legacy as a trailblazer for girls and minorities in politics will undoubtedly proceed to encourage future generations.
Rep. Burgess Owens, one other Black Republican representing the identical district that Love as soon as did, referred to as Love a shiny mild and a pricey pal.
“At this time, whereas we grieve her loss, we additionally have fun her tireless dedication to public service, her historic contributions, and the numerous lives she touched via her work,” he posted on X.
In Love’s ultimate days, Utah Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson posted, “Mia and I’ve been associates for 16 years. ‘Fridge associates’ is what she calls us. BFFs who can stroll into one another’s homes with out knocking and rummage round within the fridge. Her braveness and religion are so inspiring. I want this horrible illness was one which could possibly be overwhelmed.”