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By Jason Lemon and Andrew Stanton
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Representative Raúl Grijalva, an Arizona Democrat, has died at the age of 77, his office announced in a statement on Thursday.
"The Office of the 7th District of Arizona is saddened to announce the passing of Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva. Rep. Grijalva fought a long and brave battle. He passed away this morning due to complications of his cancer treatments," the statement from his staff said.
The Context
Grijalva was the dean of Arizona's congressional delegation, first elected in 2002. During his decades-long tenure, he established himself as a progressive leader in the House of Representatives, previously serving as a co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. He chaired the House Natural Resources Committee from 2019 to 2023.
Read More on Politics
He is the second House Democrat to die in the past few weeks after Texas Congressman Sylvester Turner on March 5.
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What To Know
His staff wrote in the statement that the congressman was "driven by his community values and spirit," highlighting his accomplishments throughout his career in Congress.
"From permanently protecting the Grand Canyon for future generations to strengthening the Affordable Care Act, his proudest moments in Congress have always been guided by community voices," the statement reads.
They also highlighted his work on environmental legislation.
"He was steadfast in his commitment to produce lasting change through environmental policies — as he would say, 'it's for the babies,'" the statement reads. "He led the Natural Resources Committee without fear of repercussion, but with an urgency of the consequences of inaction."
Grijalva announced his cancer diagnosis in April 2024.
He was reelected in November with more than 63 percent of the vote. He represented southern Arizona, including areas from Tuscon to Yuma and near Phoenix.
He said before the November elections that he would not run for reelection in 2026 and had stepped down as the top Democrat on the Natural Resources Committee.
What People Are Saying
Senator Ruben Gallego, an Arizona Democrat, on X (formerly Twitter): "Sydney and I are saddened to hear about the passing of our friend Rep. Raúl Grijalva. He was a champion for those in need and dedicated his life to fighting for all Arizonans. He will be missed."
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a New York Democrat, on X: "A genuinely devastating loss. Raúl Grijalva stood as one of the biggest champions for working people in all of Congress. His leadership was singular. He mentored generously and was an incredible friend. I will always be grateful for his lifelong courage and commitment."
Representative Juan Ciscomani, an Arizona Republican, on X: "Arizonans today lost a dedicated public servant. Raul was a fearless champion of the causes he believed in and he never forgot where he came from. While we often disagreed about public policy, he welcomed me into our congressional delegation warmly and always treated me with respect and dignity. Laura and I are praying for his wife Ramona, his 3 children, and all of his family and friends during this difficult time."
What Happens Next
Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, will schedule a special election for the seat.
Update 3/13/25, 6:39 p.m. ET: This article was updated with additional information.
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