PHOENIX — Following the passing of longtime U.S. Rep. Raúl Grijalva earlier this month, his daughter, Adelita Grijalva, has officially launched her campaign to fill his congressional seat in southern Arizona.
On Monday, Grijalva, who currently serves as a Pima County Supervisor, declared her candidacy for the position left vacant by her father’s passing.
“In Congress, I will strive to expand opportunities so that every family can achieve the American Dream—regardless of background or location,” Grijalva, a Democrat like her father, stated in a press release.
Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, who is chairing Grijalva’s campaign, also voiced her support.
“She is the leader we need right now, and I fully endorse her candidacy to ensure that southern Arizona continues to have a strong progressive voice in Washington,” Romero said.
Stepping Away from Local Office
To focus on her congressional bid, Grijalva announced that she will step down from the Pima County Board of Supervisors, with her resignation effective Friday.
A Career in Public Service
Before joining the Board of Supervisors in 2020, Grijalva dedicated over 25 years to Pima County Teen Court and also served on the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board. Her extensive background in public service aligns with her father’s decades-long tenure representing Arizona in Congress.
Raúl Grijalva passed away on March 13 at the age of 77 due to complications from cancer treatment. He had served in the U.S. House for more than 20 years, becoming a key figure in Arizona politics.
The Road to the Election
The special primary election to determine nominees for the remainder of the term, which extends through 2026, is scheduled for July 15. The general election for the heavily Democratic 7th Congressional District will take place on September 23.
Following Raúl Grijalva’s funeral last Wednesday, Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes put an end to speculation by confirming he would not be running for the seat.
Adelita Grijalva is one of 28 individuals who have filed a statement of interest for the special primary election. As of Monday morning, the list of potential candidates included 14 Democrats, 10 Republicans, two Libertarians, and one candidate each from the Green and No Labels parties.
Filing a statement of interest is a preliminary step before candidates can begin gathering signatures to qualify for the ballot. The official candidate lineup will be determined after the April 14 deadline for submitting nomination petitions.
