Rep. Raul Grijalva, a revered member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Arizona, has died at the age of 77.
The Arizona lawmaker, who died of complications from cancer treatment, was celebrated for his crucial work on environmental issues and his unyielding commitment to progressive policy aims, as Fox News reports.
Grijalva had served in Congress since 2003, representing a district in southern Arizona. Over his remarkable career, the congressman became a significant force on the House Natural Resources Committee, where he championed causes that ranged from environmental protection to enhancing health care access for marginalized communities. Grijalva was deeply committed to initiatives that sought to safeguard national parks like the Grand Canyon.
The congressman's passing provoked reactions from colleagues and peers who offered their deepest sympathies. From legislation to preserve the Grand Canyon for posterity to reinforcing health care laws, Grijalva’s accomplishments extended across a wide range of issues, fueled by what he once described as a guiding principle: engagement with the communities he served.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes said, "AZ lost a giant today. Congressman Raul Grijalva dedicated his life to fighting for the people of Arizona." The attorney general commended his numerous contributions to both local and national causes, emphasizing his advocacy for workers, Indigenous groups, and access to clean resources.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, lamenting his death, described him as "one of the biggest champions for working people in all of Congress." She underscored his leadership ability and additionally highlighted his practice of mentoring others while maintaining true friendships.
Grijalva's environmental achievements remained central to his political identity. His work ensured permanent financial backing for land and water preservation projects. Known for driving transformative climate policy through Congress, he directed efforts toward modernizing ports of entry and supporting initiatives critical to public and environmental health.
Reflecting on some of these accomplishments, his office noted, "Some of these victories seemed out of reach when he first came to Congress, but with support from community, colleagues, allies, and staff, he helped make them real." Long before his congressional tenure, Grijalva committed himself to causes that often seemed insurmountable. Yet, he pursued them with staunch dedication and determination, addressing subjects such as student loan forgiveness and fortifying legal infrastructure for immigrant families.
Grijalva missed numerous congressional votes during his lung cancer treatments, a period that also involved local scrutiny over his absences. Nevertheless, he remained steadfast in his legislative commitments and continued to engage proactively with his district’s issues.
Fellow Arizonian legislator Ruben Gallego, remarked, "Sydney and I are saddened to hear about the passing of our friend Rep. Raúl Grijalva. He was a champion for those in need." Gallego praised Grijalva’s advocacy for Arizona’s diverse communities, stressing the deep loss felt statewide. Rep. David Schweikert, another colleague, noted Grijalva's wide influence, acknowledging "The Congressman was always very kind to me -- he had a great sense of humor." Despite their differences in policy, Grijalva consistently exemplified civility, a trait that Schweikert appreciated deeply.
Moving forward, Grijalva’s Democrat-heavy district anticipates a highly contested primary to appoint his successor. The vacant congressional seat, given its historical lean toward the Democratic Party, presents an opportunity for emerging voices to build upon Grijalva's enduring advocacy.
As the state of Arizona contemplates this critical transition, officials and residents reflect on Grijalva’s broad legacy. His team, left to carry the work forward, remains resolute in honoring his guiding philosophy to empower and partner with the community to effect lasting change. Arizona state Rep. Alma Hernandez expressed feeling Grijalva’s loss keenly, extending condolences, "As someone who lost their father recently, I want to express my sincerest condolences to the Grijalva family."
While Grijalva's career has ended, the ideals he upheld live on -- rooted in a lifetime of service aimed at fairness, equity, and opportunity. As his constituents, colleagues, and family mourn, his memory continues to inspire those who work in favor of people-first policies.
