Mia Love, First Black Republican Congresswoman, Dies at 49

In a poignant farewell, Mia Love, who made history representing Utah, succumbed to complications from brain cancer, leaving behind a legacy of political courage and inspiration.

Mia Love, the groundbreaking first black Republican congresswoman, has died at the age of 49, as announced by her family. Love passed away peacefully on Sunday, at her home in Saratoga Springs, Utah, surrounded by loved ones. A statement from her family revealed that her current health struggles had been worsening, indicating she had not responded to treatment for brain cancer.

Her daughter Abigale provided insight earlier this month regarding Love's declining condition and treatment struggles. As tributes poured in, Utah Governor Spencer Cox recognized her as a "trailblazer and visionary leader," highlighting the inspiration she provided to many through her ideals and belief in the American dream. He remarked that Love's presence would be profoundly missed throughout the state.

Mia Love's journey into politics began in 2003 with her election to the Saratoga Springs city council, eventually leading her to become the mayor at the young age of 34. In 2014, she made history by being elected to the US House of Representatives, serving two terms as the first black Republican woman in that role.

Notably, during the 2016 presidential election, she criticized Donald Trump, choosing to endorse Texas Senator Ted Cruz instead. In 2018, she urged Trump to apologize for derogatory comments made about Haiti, a nation tied to her own heritage as a daughter of Haitian immigrants. Despite her significant efforts, Love's bid for a third term ended in a narrow defeat to Democratic rival Ben McAdams. Trump's response to her loss included saying, "Mia Love gave me no love, and she lost."

Prior to her political career, Love used to work as a flight attendant and had ambitions in acting, having graduated from the University of Hartford with a degree in musical theater. After being diagnosed in 2022 with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer type, she was initially given a life expectancy of 10-15 months— a benchmark she managed to surpass.

Just days before her passing, Love wrote an opinion piece for Deseret News, aiming to express gratitude and convey a hopeful message about the America she believed in, a reflection of her indomitable spirit and dedication to her life’s work.