Remembering Mia Love: A Trailblazer in Politics
Former U.S. Representative Mia Love, renowned as the first Black woman elected to Congress as a Republican, has died after battling a particularly aggressive form of brain cancer, her family revealed on X Sunday night. At 49, Love served Utah’s 4th Congressional District from 2015 to 2019. “Filled with gratitude for Mia’s profound impact on our lives, we share the news that she passed away peacefully today,” the Love family announced on her X account. “She was at home, surrounded by loved ones. Amidst the celebration of her life and an endless stream of cherished memories, Mia quietly transcended her earthly bonds, much like her words and vision always did, ascending to the heavens. We appreciate the outpouring of kind wishes, prayers, and condolences.”
Utah Governor Spencer Cox paid tribute to Love, describing her as “a true trailblazer and visionary leader,” in a heartfelt post regarding her death. “Abby and I are deeply saddened by the loss of our dear friend, Mia Love. A pioneering force and inspirational leader, Mia motivated countless people in Utah with her courage, grace, and steadfast belief in the American dream. Her legacy brings enduring goodness to our state, and we will miss her dearly,” Cox expressed.
In May, Love appeared on CNN’s “The Lead with Jake Tapper,” discussing her 2022 diagnosis with glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer notorious for its severity. As reported by the MD Anderson Cancer Center, individuals diagnosed with glioblastoma often have a life expectancy of 1.5 to 2 years, with only a slim 10% survival rate beyond five years. Love shared with Tapper that since August 2023, she had been receiving immunotherapy every three weeks through a clinical trial at The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke University. Despite her initial prognosis of 10-15 months – a milestone she exceeded – Love spoke of her optimistic outlook and how her Mormon faith sustained her resilience. “I sought healing in both my faith and in science,” she shared. “Interestingly, my patriarchal blessing noted that I would have a long, prosperous, and fulfilling life, provided I chose to stay in public service.”
Following her departure from Congress, Love took on roles as a political commentator for CNN and frequently appeared as a guest on ABC’s “The View.”