On March 23, 2025, the conservative movement lost a remarkable figure with the passing of Mia Love, Utah’s history-making former congresswoman, at the age of 49. After a courageous three-year battle with brain cancer, Love departed this world surrounded by her family, leaving behind a legacy of service, faith, and an unwavering commitment to the principles of liberty. As the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress and the first Black member of Congress from Utah, her journey from the daughter of Haitian immigrants to a national political figure is a testament to the American dream—a dream she championed with grace and determination.
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… pic.twitter.com/YzhAuH1l9x
— Mia Love (@MiaBLove) March 24, 2025
Born Ludmya “Mia” Bourdeau on December 6, 1975, to Haitian parents who arrived in the United States seeking opportunity, Love’s story embodies the conservative ideal of hard work and personal responsibility. Her father, Maxime, took a maintenance job in New Jersey, while her mother, Marie, worked as a housekeeper and later a nursing assistant. From these humble beginnings in Brooklyn, Love’s path led her to Connecticut, where she excelled in the arts, earning a scholarship to the University of Hartford’s Hartt School. Her early career as a performer and flight attendant showcased her versatility, but it was her faith and family that ultimately guided her to Utah, where she would make her mark.
Love’s entry into politics began with a quintessentially conservative motivation: solving problems at the grassroots level. In Saratoga Springs, she rallied neighbors to combat a plague of midges, a small but telling act of community leadership that propelled her onto the City Council at just 28. She became the first Black woman elected to office in Utah County, a milestone reflecting her ability to break barriers while staying true to her values. As mayor during the 2009 housing crisis, Love demonstrated fiscal responsibility and resilience, earning her a reputation as a rising star in Utah’s Republican circles.
Her ascent to Congress in 2014, after a hard-fought campaign against Democrat Jim Matheson and later Doug Owens, marked a historic moment for conservative representation. Love’s powerful speeches, like her 2012 Republican National Convention address, resonated with a message of hope and opportunity. “The American dream is not dead,” she declared, drawing from her parents’ journey to inspire a vision of self-reliance over government dependence—a cornerstone of conservative philosophy.
After Congress, Love continued to shine as a CNN contributor and occasional host on "The View," bringing her conservative perspective to broader audiences. Her 2022 brain cancer diagnosis tested her resilience, yet she faced it with the same faith that had guided her life. Participating in an immunotherapy trial, she defied the odds, sharing her story to inspire hope. As her daughter Abigale noted in early March, the family shifted focus to cherishing their time together, a poignant reminder of Love’s devotion to her husband, Jason, and their three children.
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Utah leaders, including Gov. Spencer Cox, mourned her loss, with Cox calling her a “true friend” whose legacy of service inspired all. State Sen. Heidi Balderree praised her as a “force of nature,” recalling her bold leadership and radiant spirit. In her final Deseret News column, Love expressed hope that her life would reflect the enduring principles of liberty—a fitting epitaph for a conservative trailblazer.
Abby and I are heartbroken by the passing of our dear friend Mia Love. 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… pic.twitter.com/sZ5WDikodI
— Governor Cox (@GovCox) March 24, 2025
Senator Mike Lee, who knew Mia when they both won their respective offices in 2010, also sent his condolences.
This is truly heartbreaking
— Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) March 24, 2025
Mia Love was an outstanding public servant and a dear friend
Her passing leaves a deep, painful void https://t.co/WqnfFTmh9x
Even former Utah senator and presidential candidate Mitt Romney weighed in with his disbelief of her passing so young.
Heavy heart with the passing of my friend and colleague, Mia Love. Her energy, enthusiasm and wit made her a stand-out member of Congress. Her faith and fortitude made her a model for me and for countless others. We will dearly miss you, Mia.
— Mitt Romney (@MittRomney) March 24, 2025
Mia Love’s passing is a profound loss, but her story remains a beacon for conservatives. She proved that faith, family, and freedom can propel anyone to great heights, regardless of background. Let’s honor her by celebrating her achievements and ensuring her vision of America endures
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