Former Utah Congresswoman Mia Love Dies At 49 After 3-Year Brain Cancer Battle
Mia Love, the first Black Republican woman ever elected to Congress, has died at the age of 49 following a nearly three-year battle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. She passed away peacefully at her home in Saratoga Springs, Utah, surrounded by family on March 23, 2025.
Love’s death marks the loss of a powerful and historic voice in American politics—one that broke barriers, championed conservative values, and inspired a generation of Americans from all walks of life.
A Story of Faith, Family, and Determination
Born Ludmya Bourdeau in Brooklyn, New York, to Haitian immigrant parents, Love grew up grounded in faith, discipline, and the belief in the American Dream. She graduated from the University of Hartford with a degree in Fine Arts before converting to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a decision that ultimately led her to Utah.
In 1998, she married Jason Love, and together they raised three children—Alessa, Abigail, and Peyton.
From Local Leader to National Trailblazer
Love entered public service in 2003 when she was elected to the Saratoga Springs City Council. In 2010, she became the city’s first female and first Black mayor, where she gained national attention for her leadership during times of natural disaster, including wildfires and mudslides, and for her success in stabilizing the city’s finances.
In 2014, she made history again when she was elected to represent Utah’s 4th Congressional District, becoming the first Black Republican woman to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her time in Congress from 2015 to 2019 was marked by her focus on economic development, tax reform, religious freedom, and public safety.
Though she narrowly lost re-election in 2018, Love remained a national voice, working as a political commentator and continuing to engage in public discourse through fellowships and speaking engagements.
Courage in the Face of Cancer
In 2022, Love was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Despite the aggressive nature of the disease, she faced it with grace and resilience, undergoing surgery and treatment while continuing to speak out on issues that mattered to her. In March 2025, her family announced that treatments were no longer effective, and they were shifting their focus to time together.
Remembered for Her Legacy of Service
Tributes have poured in from across the political spectrum, with many praising Love’s trailblazing achievements, unshakable faith, and commitment to her country. Utah Governor Spencer Cox called her a “remarkable leader whose impact will be felt for generations.”
Plans for a public celebration of her life are underway, as her family prepares to honor a woman who defied the odds, shattered ceilings, and never stopped believing in the promise of America.
The Bottom Line
Mia Love’s story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering principle. Her passing is a profound loss not only for Utah but for the entire nation. In life, she stood as a symbol of what’s possible in America. In death, her legacy will continue to inspire.