Democratic Representative Raúl Grijalva, a titan of progressive politics and fierce advocate for environmental justice, has passed away at the age of 77 due to complications from cancer treatments. Grijalva, who represented Arizona’s 7th Congressional District, served in the U.S. House of Representatives for over two decades, leaving behind an indelible mark on American politics.
A Legacy of Advocacy
From the moment he was elected in 2002, Grijalva positioned himself as a relentless champion for immigrant rights, environmental conservation, and Indigenous communities. As the Chair of the House Natural Resources Committee, he played a crucial role in protecting public lands and pushing for climate action—often clashing with corporate interests and conservative lawmakers who sought to dismantle environmental protections.
Grijalva also served as Co-Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, working alongside Bernie Sanders and Pramila Jayapal to advocate for progressive policies like Medicare for All, workers’ rights, and comprehensive immigration reform. His leadership in the caucus solidified his place as a key voice for working-class Americans and marginalized communities.
His passing is the second death of a Democratic House member in March 2025, following the loss of Texas Representative Sylvester Turner. With the House already on a razor-thin margin, Grijalva’s death shifts the balance further, giving Republicans a temporary 218-213 majority until a special election is held.
Names already circulating as potential successors for his seat include his daughter, Adelita Grijalva, a longtime education advocate, and Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, who has praised Grijalva as a mentor.
Tributes have poured in from colleagues and political figures across the country:
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Senator Ruben Gallego: “He spent his life fighting for the people. Arizona has lost a giant.”
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Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez: “Raúl Grijalva was the embodiment of progressive politics. He never backed down.”
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Former President Barack Obama: “Grijalva’s work in Congress helped shape the future of environmental protection and social justice in America. His leadership will be sorely missed.”
Even some of his fiercest Republican adversaries acknowledged his unwavering dedication to public service. House Speaker Mike Johnson noted, “While we often disagreed, there was never a question about Raúl’s commitment to his constituents.”
A Fighter Until the End
Despite battling cancer, Grijalva continued his congressional duties with unwavering determination, attending House votes and leading committee meetings until just weeks before his passing. Friends say he remained sharp, passionate, and fully engaged in the issues that mattered most to him.
His legacy will live on in the policies he championed, the people he uplifted, and the movements he inspired. As Arizona and the nation mourn his loss, Raúl Grijalva was a fighter, a leader, and a true public servant.