Democratic congressman dies at 77 after battle with cancer
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The political landscape has lost a towering figure with the passing of a congressman at the age of 77.
Known for his unwavering dedication to public service and his 'long and brave' battle against cancer, his death marks the end of an era for the nation.
Grijalva represented Southern Arizona in Congress for over 20 years.
His office stated that he was "driven by his community values and spirit" and worked "tirelessly for transformational improvements."
He was chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee from 2019 to 2023. He also served as co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus from 2009 to 2019.
Grijalva focused on environmental policies and was committed to preserving natural resources.
His office recalled that he was determined to serve on the committee when he arrived in Congress.
He often said his efforts were "for the babies" while emphasizing the importance of long-term environmental protection.
He also worked on initiatives to improve roads, bridges, public parks, childcare centers, and affordable housing.
His office highlighted his push for "new public parks, childcare centers, health care clinics, local businesses, and affordable housing."
Many lawmakers honored Grijalva’s legacy following his passing.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez described him as an "incredible friend" and "one of the biggest champions for working people in all of Congress."
She also said his "leadership was singular" and that he "mentored generously."
Senator Bernie Sanders called Grijalva a "fighter for working families throughout his entire life."
He described him as "one of the most progressive members of the US House" and said, "he will be sorely missed."
Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona called Grijalva a "role model" and said he was "not just my colleague, but my friend."
Gallego stated that Grijalva "served as a role model to many young people across the Grand Canyon State" and was "a voice for equality."
Grijalva was born in Tucson, Arizona, on February 19, 1948.
He married his wife, Ramona, in 1971, and they had three children.
In October of the previous year, he announced he would not seek re-election in 2026.
His office stated that he "passed away due to complications of his cancer treatments."
Grijalva won his final term in his solidly Democratic district by more than 25 percentage points.
A special election will be held to fill the vacancy.
His contributions to public service, environmental policy, and community development will be remembered.
Congressman Grijalva's story is a poignant reminder that the battles we fight today—whether personal, political, or societal—are for the benefit of tomorrow's generations. May he rest in peace.
Read next: The world loses a “beacon of kindness”: Reggae superstar’s death saddens many
Known for his unwavering dedication to public service and his 'long and brave' battle against cancer, his death marks the end of an era for the nation.
Grijalva represented Southern Arizona in Congress for over 20 years.
His office stated that he was "driven by his community values and spirit" and worked "tirelessly for transformational improvements."
He was chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee from 2019 to 2023. He also served as co-chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus from 2009 to 2019.
Grijalva focused on environmental policies and was committed to preserving natural resources.
Arizona Congressman Raul Grijalva dies at 77 after battle with lung cancer. Image source: 12 News / YouTube
His office recalled that he was determined to serve on the committee when he arrived in Congress.
He often said his efforts were "for the babies" while emphasizing the importance of long-term environmental protection.
He also worked on initiatives to improve roads, bridges, public parks, childcare centers, and affordable housing.
His office highlighted his push for "new public parks, childcare centers, health care clinics, local businesses, and affordable housing."
Many lawmakers honored Grijalva’s legacy following his passing.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez described him as an "incredible friend" and "one of the biggest champions for working people in all of Congress."
She also said his "leadership was singular" and that he "mentored generously."
Senator Bernie Sanders called Grijalva a "fighter for working families throughout his entire life."
He described him as "one of the most progressive members of the US House" and said, "he will be sorely missed."
Senator Ruben Gallego of Arizona called Grijalva a "role model" and said he was "not just my colleague, but my friend."
Gallego stated that Grijalva "served as a role model to many young people across the Grand Canyon State" and was "a voice for equality."
Grijalva was born in Tucson, Arizona, on February 19, 1948.
He married his wife, Ramona, in 1971, and they had three children.
In October of the previous year, he announced he would not seek re-election in 2026.
His office stated that he "passed away due to complications of his cancer treatments."
Grijalva won his final term in his solidly Democratic district by more than 25 percentage points.
A special election will be held to fill the vacancy.
His contributions to public service, environmental policy, and community development will be remembered.
Read next: The world loses a “beacon of kindness”: Reggae superstar’s death saddens many
