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Former United States Rep. Mia Love, the first Black woman elected to Congress as a Republican candidate, has died at the age of 49, her family announced in a statement shared on her X account Sunday (March 23) night.
"Love Family: With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully today. She was in her home surrounded by family. In the midst of a celebration of her life and an avalanche of happy memories, Mia quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her words and vision always did, soared heavenward. We are thankful for the many good wishes, prayers and condolences. We are taking some time as a family and will provide information about funeral services and a public celebration of her life in the days to come," the statement reads.
Love died at her home in Saratoga Springs, located about 30 miles outside Salt Lake City, following a recent battle with brain cancer, having undergone immunotherapy as part of a clinical trial at Duke Univeristy's brain tumor center prior to her death. The former congresswoman, who represented Utah's 4th District from 2015 to 2019, reportedly stopped responding to treatment earlier this month, her daughter confirmed in an update at the time.
"Abby and I are heartbroken by the passing of our dear friend Mia Love," said Utah Gov. Spencer Cox in a post shared on his X account. "A true trailblazer and visionary leader, Mia inspired countless Utahns through her courage, grace, and unwavering belief in the American dream. Her legacy leaves a lasting, positive impact on our state. We will miss her deeply."