Salt Lake City, UT — Mia Love, the trailblazing former congresswoman from Utah and the first Black Republican woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, passed away on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at the age of 49. Love succumbed to glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, at her home, surrounded by family.
A Trailblazing Political Career
Born Ludmya Bourdeau on December 6, 1975, in Brooklyn, New York, to Haitian immigrants, Love’s journey into politics was marked by a series of historic firsts. She began her political career in Saratoga Springs, Utah, serving on the city council before becoming mayor in 2010. Her election as mayor marked the first time a Haitian-American woman held such a position in Utah.
In 2014, Love was elected to represent Utah’s 4th Congressional District, making history as the first Black Republican woman in Congress. During her tenure, she served on the Financial Services Committee and was known for her advocacy of limited government and fiscal responsibility. Despite her national prominence, Love faced challenging re-election campaigns, ultimately losing her seat in 2018.
Battle with Cancer
In 2022, Love was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Despite aggressive treatment, including participation in clinical trials, the cancer continued to progress. Earlier this month, her family announced that the cancer was no longer responding to treatment, and they had shifted focus to spending quality time with her.
Final Reflections
In her final days, Love penned an open letter to America, reflecting on her life, legacy, and love for the nation. She expressed gratitude for the opportunities she had and emphasized the importance of unity and understanding in a divided country.
Survived By
Love is survived by her husband, Jason, and their three children. The family has requested privacy during this time and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and condolences from across the nation.
