S3, E73 - In Memory of Congressman Doug LaMalfa (1960-2026)
About this episode
A heartfelt conversation with Congressman Doug LaMalfa, who shares his passion for cars and the challenges of being a car enthusiast in Congress. LaMalfa discusses the impact of California's strict automotive regulations, the future of electric vehicles, and the importance of preserving automotive culture. He reflects on his personal car collection, including classic Mustangs and a Ford F-150 Lightning, while advocating for the rights of car enthusiasts against increasing government mandates. The episode highlights the intersection of politics and automotive passion, offering insights into the ongoing debates surrounding emissions and consumer choice.
This episode is dedicated to car guy and California Congressman Doug LaMalfa, who passed away unexpectedly on January 6th, 2026. In honor of Congressman LaMalfa, we've decided to re-air our interview with him from when we joined SEMA in Washington D.C. to discuss the impacts of the now repealed EV Mandate.
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Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus
"...the co-chair of the, let me get this right, the Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus. I'm glad you wrote that down, I wouldn't remember all that name."
This is a group of lawmakers in Congress who care about cars and racing. They work on laws that affect car enthusiasts and the automotive industry.
The Congressional Automotive Performance and Motorsports Caucus is a group within the U.S. Congress that focuses on issues related to automotive performance and motorsports. It aims to represent the interests of car enthusiasts and the automotive industry in legislative discussions.
hot rod
"...California was really the hotbed of so much automotive, especially on the hot rod side. But you know, we used to have automotive plants there in Northern Cal and Southern Cal."
A hot rod is a car that has been changed to make it faster and more powerful. People often customize these cars to improve their speed and performance, and they are a big part of car culture in America.
A hot rod is a modified car that is optimized for performance, often featuring enhancements to the engine, suspension, and body. The culture surrounding hot rods is deeply rooted in American automotive history, particularly in the mid-20th century.
Ford Mustangs
"...They built Mustangs, not too far from me in Northern California. And I think Van Nuys had plants down there in SoCal."
The Mustang is a famous car made by Ford that is known for being sporty and powerful. It has been popular in America for many years and is often associated with car enthusiasts.
The Ford Mustang is an iconic American muscle car that has been in production since 1964. It is known for its performance, style, and cultural significance in the automotive world.
Edelbrock
"...one of the big names would be Edelbrock. He was very early on making all those different heads and intakes..."
Edelbrock makes parts that help cars go faster and perform better. They are popular among car enthusiasts who want to upgrade their vehicles.
Edelbrock is a well-known aftermarket automotive company that specializes in performance parts, particularly for American muscle cars. They are famous for their intake manifolds, carburetors, and cylinder heads, which enhance engine performance.
Ford Flathead
"...for the Ford Flathead. And then the other V8 started to come out after that..."
The Ford Flathead is a famous engine that was used in many cars from the 1930s to the early 1950s. It's known for its unique design and is popular among car enthusiasts.
The Ford Flathead is an iconic V8 engine produced by Ford from 1932 to 1953. It was one of the first mass-produced V8 engines and became popular in hot rodding and custom car culture.
Flathead V8
"The Flathead is just amazing what, how far that lasted and how far it was able to go. You know, even, was it John Dillinger? Didn't he write a letter?"
The Flathead V8 is a type of engine made by Ford that was used in cars for many years. It was known for being easy to work on and not too expensive, which made it popular among car buyers.
The Flathead V8 is an engine design that was produced by Ford from 1932 to 1953. It was notable for its simple design and affordability, making it popular in many vehicles, including those used in early American crime stories.
Chevrolet Corvette
"The Corvette. He became the Corvette guy."
The Corvette is a fast and stylish car made by Chevrolet. It's famous for being a sports car that many people love to drive.
The Corvette is a sports car produced by Chevrolet, known for its performance and distinctive design. It has a long history and has evolved through multiple generations since its introduction in 1953.
Flathead Ford
"He was actually a Flathead Ford guy before that."
The Flathead Ford is an old type of engine made by Ford that was popular in cars from the 1930s to the 1950s. It's known for its unique design and is a classic in car history.
The Flathead Ford refers to a type of V8 engine produced by Ford from 1932 to 1953. It was known for its simple design and was widely used in various Ford vehicles, becoming iconic in American automotive history.
De Tomaso Pantera
"See, I'm also the owner of a Daytonausel Pantera. So Ford figured it out back in 1971, you know."
The Pantera is a sports car made by De Tomaso, combining Italian style with a powerful American engine.
The De Tomaso Pantera is a mid-engine sports car produced in the early 1970s, known for its Italian design and American V8 power.
351 Windsor
"You have a 351 Windsor in that? Cleveland."
The 351 Windsor is a type of V8 engine made by Ford that was popular in many cars and trucks.
The 351 Windsor is a V8 engine produced by Ford, known for its performance and used in various Ford vehicles from the 1960s to the 1990s.
Cleveland motor
"Cleveland. Cleveland motor. Yes, sir."
The Cleveland motor is another type of powerful V8 engine from Ford, popular in the 1970s.
The Cleveland motor is a V8 engine produced by Ford, known for its high performance and used in various Ford models during the 1970s.
Ford F100
"I've got a few of my own, a 67 F100."
The Ford F100 is an older pickup truck model from 1967. It's popular among truck enthusiasts for its strong build and classic style.
The Ford F100 is a classic pickup truck that was part of Ford's F-Series, known for its durability and versatility. The 1967 model is particularly sought after by collectors for its vintage appeal.
Ford GPW
"I've got a Ford GPW."
The Ford GPW is a military jeep from World War II. It's known for being tough and is popular among collectors.
The Ford GPW is a military vehicle produced during World War II, known for its ruggedness and off-road capabilities. It was used extensively by the U.S. Army and is a collectible item today.
Ford Rangers
"...ot a Ford GPW. I've had a litany of Ford trucks, Rangers, things like that. What else do you drive?"
The Ford Ranger is a smaller truck that can carry things in its bed and drive on rough roads. It's a good choice for people who want a vehicle that can handle both everyday tasks and outdoor adventures.
The Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck that has been popular for its versatility and ruggedness. Known for its off-road capabilities and practical size, it appeals to both casual drivers and those needing a workhorse vehicle.
Bentley Azure
"...o start? My daily cars, an O3 Mustang Mach 1 and Azure Blue, not too far from what this petty blue might..."
The Bentley Azure is a fancy car that you can drive with the top down. It's very luxurious and comfortable, perfect for people who want to enjoy a stylish ride.
The Bentley Azure is a luxury convertible known for its opulence and powerful performance. Combining classic British craftsmanship with modern technology, it offers a high-end driving experience for those who appreciate luxury.
Ford Mustang Mach 1
"My daily cars, an O3 Mustang Mach 1 and Azure Blue..."
The Ford Mustang Mach 1 from 2003 is a sporty car with a powerful engine. It's designed for performance and is a favorite among muscle car fans.
The 2003 Ford Mustang Mach 1 is a high-performance version of the Mustang, featuring a powerful V8 engine and sporty styling. It's known for its strong performance and classic muscle car appeal.
Ford Boss 302
"I bought about the 2013 Boss 302 in the colors called Gotta Have a Green."
The Ford Boss 302 from 2013 is a special version of the Mustang made for racing. It has better handling and more power than regular Mustangs.
The 2013 Ford Boss 302 is a high-performance variant of the Mustang, designed for track use with enhanced handling and power. It pays homage to the original Boss 302 from the late 1960s.
naturally aspirated
"It's very well balanced, a lot of horsepower, naturally aspirated. You were talking blowers a little while ago."
A naturally aspirated engine gets air from the atmosphere without any extra help from devices like turbos or superchargers. This makes it simpler and gives it a unique sound.
A naturally aspirated engine relies on atmospheric pressure to draw air into the combustion chamber, as opposed to forced induction methods like turbocharging or supercharging. This design often results in a more linear power delivery and a distinct engine sound.
turbo
"I love the sound of a blower and turbos are fun, but there's a lot of complexity that introduces."
A turbo is a part that helps an engine get more power by using the exhaust gases to push more air into it. It can make the engine faster but also adds some extra parts that need care.
A turbocharger is a device that uses exhaust gases to spin a turbine, which then forces more air into the engine. This results in increased power without significantly increasing engine size, but it can add complexity and require more maintenance.
under the hood
"And I like to be able to get under the hood and actually see stuff, you know."
'Under the hood' means looking at the engine and parts of the car that are not visible from the outside. It's where all the important machinery is located.
The phrase 'under the hood' refers to the area of a car where the engine and other mechanical components are located. It's often used to discuss the technical aspects of a vehicle.
Highland Green
"It's called Highland Green. Black stripes on that one? Or white?"
Highland Green is a special color for cars, especially known for being used on a famous Mustang in a movie. It's a color that many car fans recognize and appreciate.
Highland Green is a specific paint color famously associated with the 1968 Ford Mustang, particularly the one driven by Steve McQueen in the movie 'Bullitt'. This color has become iconic among car enthusiasts and collectors.
Bullitt car
"...so it looks like the bullet car from the front there. Yes."
The Bullitt car is a famous Mustang from a movie where Steve McQueen drove it in a thrilling chase. It's well-loved by car fans for its speed and style.
The Bullitt car refers to the 1968 Ford Mustang GT driven by Steve McQueen in the film 'Bullitt'. It's renowned for its performance and the iconic car chase scene, making it a symbol of American muscle cars.
Ford F150 Lightning
"The one I bought brand new a long time ago was a 93 Ford F-150 lightning pickup. Not this electric lightning pickup."
The Ford F-150 Lightning is a special version of the F-150 truck that is built for speed and performance. The 1993 model is one of the earlier versions that many enthusiasts love.
The Ford F-150 Lightning is a high-performance version of the F-150 pickup truck, known for its powerful engine and sporty features. The 1993 model was part of the first generation of Lightning trucks, which were designed for speed and performance.
normally aspirated
"And for anybody who's thinking about it, this was the normally aspirated 351. This was not the second generation supercharged 544."
Normally aspirated means the engine gets air from the atmosphere without any extra help. This usually makes the power come on smoothly.
Normally aspirated refers to an internal combustion engine that relies on atmospheric pressure alone for air intake, without the assistance of a turbocharger or supercharger. This results in a more linear power delivery compared to forced induction engines.
Ford GT40
"...ng else too. Yeah, this had 351 Windsor with the GT40 heads on it, made about 30 more horsepower than ..."
The Ford GT40 is a super-fast race car that was built to win big races. It's known for its cool looks and powerful engine, making it a dream car for many car enthusiasts.
The Ford GT40 is a legendary sports car that was designed for racing and is famous for its victories at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in the 1960s. Its sleek design and powerful performance make it a symbol of automotive excellence and innovation.
GT40 heads
"Yeah, this had 351 Windsor with the GT40 heads on it, made about 30 more horsepower than a standard Windsor."
GT40 heads are special parts for the Ford 351 engine that help it breathe better and make more power. They are better than the regular heads that come with the engine.
GT40 heads are high-performance cylinder heads designed for the Ford 351 Windsor engine. They improve airflow and combustion efficiency, resulting in increased horsepower and torque compared to standard heads.
tranny
"I think the tranny had a little tweak."
Tranny is a slang word for the transmission in a car. The transmission helps the car change speeds and move.
Tranny is a colloquial term for a vehicle's transmission, which is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels and allowing the vehicle to change speeds.
17-inch wheels
"Lowered suspension, 17-inch wheels, which was a big thing at the time."
17-inch wheels are the size of the wheels on the truck. Bigger wheels can make a vehicle look nicer and help it drive better, but they might make the ride bumpier.
17-inch wheels refer to the diameter of the wheel, which can affect the vehicle's handling, ride comfort, and appearance. Larger wheels can improve aesthetics and performance but may also lead to a harsher ride.
Ford Lightning
"...the lightning came in the first couple of years only with two bucket seats."
The Ford Lightning is a special version of the Ford F-150 truck that is designed for speed and performance. It's known for being faster than regular trucks and has a sporty look.
The Ford Lightning is a high-performance version of the Ford F-150 pickup truck, known for its powerful engine and sporty features. It was originally produced in the 1990s and has since seen a revival in recent years.
electric cars
"...automakers just going hellbent to say everybody wants these electric cars."
Electric cars run on electricity instead of gasoline. They are better for the environment because they produce fewer emissions, and many people are starting to use them more often.
Electric cars are vehicles powered entirely or partially by electricity, often seen as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered cars. They are increasingly popular due to advancements in battery technology and growing concerns about climate change.
Durango
"...to look at a Durango for my wife a little bit here with..."
The Dodge Durango is a type of SUV that is big enough for families and has a lot of space inside. It's known for being strong and good for driving around with kids or cargo.
The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and powerful engine options. It is popular for family use and offers a blend of performance and utility.
Ford Thunderbird (1957)
"...my grandmother had a 57 Thunderbird that she drove to high school. Oh, wow. Lunchtime we'd pop the top off and go cruise around..."
The Ford Thunderbird is a famous car from the 1950s. The 1957 model is well-known for its cool design and was often seen as a symbol of freedom and fun driving.
The Ford Thunderbird is a classic American car that was first introduced in 1955. The 1957 model is particularly iconic, known for its stylish design and powerful V8 engine, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
Honda Accords
"...p. They laugh at us for having been in the Paris Accords. They have no intention of following that."
The Honda Accord is a popular car that is known for being dependable and easy to drive. It has a roomy inside and is good on gas, making it a favorite for families and commuters.
The Honda Accord is a midsize sedan known for its reliability, comfort, and fuel efficiency. It has been a staple in the automotive market for decades, often praised for its spacious interior and advanced safety features.
CAFE standard
"Oh, yeah, we can do these. You know, a few years ago at the beginning of Obama, the CAFE standard for gas mileage was meant to... We had to average 27.5 miles per gallon by X year of all cars that are sold in the American fleet or any fleet, I guess."
The CAFE standard is a rule that says car makers have to make their cars use less gas. This helps save fuel and reduce pollution. There are specific goals they need to meet each year.
The Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) standard is a set of regulations in the United States aimed at improving the average fuel economy of cars and light trucks sold in the country. It requires manufacturers to meet specific fuel efficiency targets over a certain period.
Toyota Prius
"The Prius? No, I hate those things, but they represent..."
The Toyota Prius is a type of car that uses both a gasoline engine and an electric motor to save fuel. It's known for being very good on gas, which means it can go a long way without using much fuel.
The Toyota Prius is a hybrid vehicle known for its fuel efficiency and low emissions. It was one of the first mass-produced hybrid cars and has become synonymous with eco-friendly driving.
Ford Bronco
"I have one. My Bronco. It's got a four-barrel carburetor on the 351 be..."
The Ford Bronco is a tough SUV that can go off-road and handle rough terrain. It's known for its strong build and has a lot of fans who love taking it on adventures.
The Ford Bronco is a classic SUV that has gained a cult following for its off-road capabilities and rugged design. Originally introduced in the 1960s, it has recently been revived with modern technology while retaining its adventurous spirit.
four-barrel carburetor
"It's got a four-barrel carburetor on the 351 because I found it. I was pretty happy with that."
A four-barrel carburetor helps an engine get more air and fuel, which can make it run better and faster. It's often used in cars that need a lot of power.
A four-barrel carburetor is a type of carburetor that has four separate barrels for mixing air and fuel, allowing for increased airflow and power, especially in performance engines like the 351.
Peterbilt
"Am I going to be able to haul my rice with the Peterbilts anymore?"
Peterbilt makes big trucks that are used for hauling heavy loads. They're known for being strong and reliable.
Peterbilt is a well-known manufacturer of medium- and heavy-duty trucks, recognized for their durability and performance in the trucking industry.
EPA waivers
"...looking at this stuff on EPA waivers and also Sean Duffy. Well, more on the dumb high speed rail..."
EPA waivers are permissions that let some cars avoid strict environmental rules. This is important for people who want to customize their cars without worrying about pollution laws.
EPA waivers refer to exemptions that allow certain vehicles or modifications to bypass specific environmental regulations set by the Environmental Protection Agency. These waivers can be crucial for car enthusiasts and hot rodders who want to modify their vehicles without facing stringent emissions standards.
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