Lance Gooden, U.S. Congressman, posted a series of statements on January 6, 2026, addressing the passing of a colleague, his meeting with former President Donald Trump, and concerns regarding federal spending on hotels for undocumented immigrants.
In a message shared at 15:04 UTC, Gooden expressed condolences following the death of Congressman Doug LaMalfa: “I am heartbroken to hear about the passing of my colleague, Congressman Doug LaMalfa. Doug was a friend to all, a dedicated public servant, and an America-loving patriot. He will be deeply missed.”
Later that day at 16:19 UTC, Gooden commented on his engagement with former President Trump: “Great to be with President @realdonaldtrump today. Important work ahead putting the American people FIRST. Together, we’ll keep Making America Great Again in 2026 “
At 17:44 UTC, Gooden addressed federal expenditures related to immigration enforcement and hotel accommodations: “The Biden Administration spent $86,000,000+ on hotels for illegal aliens. Hotel operators had no problem taking that money. If any now deny rooms to ICE agents enforcing the law, they deserve to be named, shamed, and boycotted.”
Gooden has served as a member of Congress since winning his first election in 2018 against Dan Wood. He secured reelection in subsequent cycles by defeating Carolyn Salter in 2020 (62% to 35.9%), Tartisha Hill in 2022 (64% to 33.9%), and Ruth Torres in 2024 (64.1% to 35.9%).
