Rep. Raúl Grijalva Passes Away at 77
Arizona Congressman Raúl Grijalva, a longtime Democratic leader and advocate for progressive policies, passed away at the age of 77. His office announced that he died Thursday morning due to complications from cancer treatments.
A Courageous Battle with Cancer
Grijalva publicly revealed his cancer diagnosis in April 2024 and had been undergoing treatment. At the time, he described the news as “difficult to process.” His office honored his resilience, stating, “Rep. Grijalva fought a long and brave battle.”
A Legacy of Public Service
Grijalva was first elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2002. Throughout his tenure, he played a key role on the House Natural Resources Committee, serving as both ranking member and chair. He was widely respected for his environmental advocacy and his dedication to conservation efforts.
Champion for Progressive Causes
In addition to his work on environmental issues, Grijalva was an active member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus and served as chair emeritus of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC). His leadership helped shape progressive policies in the House, earning him a reputation as a strong voice for marginalized communities.
“Rep. Grijalva’s kind and humble nature was known to many,” his office said in a statement. “He was approachable by all because he believed people should be treated as equals. He loved to give gifts, blare music in his office, and get to know people for who they are.”
Representation for Southern Arizona
Grijalva represented a Democratic district along the U.S.-Mexico border in southern Arizona. He consistently won reelection by large margins, securing a twelfth term in November after defeating his Republican opponent by more than 25 percentage points.
His passing leaves a vacancy in the House, which will be filled by a special election.
Another Loss for House Democrats
Grijalva’s death comes just a week after the passing of Texas Democratic Rep. Sylvester Turner, a former Houston mayor, at the age of 70. These back-to-back losses have left House Democrats mourning two influential members.
Tributes from Colleagues
Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas), chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, described Grijalva as “a real giant of the House and of the progressive movement.” He praised his legacy as a champion for the environment and environmental justice, adding, “As a young Latino in politics, there were not that many Latino progressives with a real national profile to look up to. He was a mentor and friend to me.”
Former CPC chair Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) also paid tribute, recalling Grijalva’s unwavering commitment to progressive causes. “You never had to wonder where Rep. Grijalva was going to be on a critical vote. He was always going to be in the place of the people,” she said. “He was a champion on so many big issues. It is an immense loss, and my thoughts go out to his family.”
House Minority Leader Honors Grijalva’s Legacy
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) praised Grijalva’s career, calling him “a progressive warrior who always fought for the least, the lost, and the left behind.” He emphasized Grijalva’s mentorship and contributions to Congress, saying, “He was a mentor to many and a friend to all. We will miss his principled presence and wisdom greatly.”
A Lasting Impact
Grijalva’s passing marks the end of an era for Arizona politics and progressive leadership in the House. His decades-long advocacy for environmental protection, immigrant rights, and social justice leave behind a powerful legacy that will continue to influence policy for years to come.
As the House prepares for a special election to fill his seat, tributes continue to pour in, recognizing Grijalva’s enduring impact on Congress and the communities he served.