Washington, D.C. – Democratic Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva, a long-time advocate for environmental protections and progressive causes, passed away at the age of 77, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service in Congress. Known for his commitment to championing immigrants, Native American tribes, and environmental policies, Grijalva served 12 terms representing southern Arizona, eventually rising to chair the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee.
Throughout his career, Grijalva worked tirelessly to protect the environment, advocating for initiatives such as securing water supplies in Arizona and the West and funding the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund. Grijalva, the son of a Mexican immigrant, was first elected to Congress in 2002 and had been leading the Congressional Progressive Caucus for a decade prior to his resignation earlier this year.
Following Grijalva’s passing, there will be a special election to fill his seat in the district spanning southern Arizona. Potential candidates for the Democratic primary include Grijalva’s daughter, Adelita Grijalva, and Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, both of whom are expected to face off in what is likely to be a closely contested race.
Grijalva’s dedication to representing the underprivileged and marginalized was echoed by his colleagues, with Democratic Sen. Ruben Gallego praising him as a role model for young people in Arizona. Senator Bernie Sanders also honored Grijalva’s progressive values, noting his lifelong commitment to fighting for working families.
In addition to his environmental advocacy, Grijalva was remembered for his efforts to create a new national monument near the Grand Canyon, protecting the area from uranium mining and honoring the ancestral lands of Native American tribes. His impact on environmental policies extended to opposing the development of a major copper mine near Phoenix, showcasing his deep-rooted commitment to preserving natural resources.
Grijalva’s passing has left a void in Congress and the Democratic party, with colleagues and constituents alike mourning the loss of a dedicated public servant. As the nation reflects on his legacy, Grijalva’s contributions to environmental protection and progressive causes will continue to resonate in the halls of Congress and beyond.