Grijalva’s Daughter Steps into Politics: Adelita Grijalva Runs for Congress in Southern Arizona
Adelita Grijalva, a current Pima County Supervisor, has officially announced her candidacy to fill the congressional seat left vacant by her late father, Raúl Grijalva. The announcement, made Monday morning, marks the beginning of her journey into national politics, where she will run for the position representing Arizona’s 7th Congressional District.
In a heartfelt statement, Grijalva explained that her decision came after considerable soul-searching and deep discussions with her three teenage children. She said she felt a strong calling to continue her father’s legacy, especially in the face of pressing political challenges.
“I had somebody in my life who was unapologetic and unafraid to share his progressive values,” Grijalva said, reflecting on her father’s impact. “When I thought about who else could carry forward those values for Southern Arizona, I realized this was something I had to do.”
Grijalva’s father, Raúl Grijalva, held the Congressional seat for Arizona’s 7th District for over two decades, from 2003 until his passing on March 13, 2024, at the age of 77. A beloved political figure, Raúl was known for his staunch support of progressive values, especially advocating for the environment and immigrant rights. His legacy as a fierce advocate for Southern Arizona continues to inspire many, including his daughter.
Stepping into a New Role
Adelita Grijalva has been an influential figure in Pima County politics. She served as a Pima County Supervisor for District 5 since 2020, where she became the first Latina to hold that position. Notably, she chaired the board of supervisors for two years, ending in January of this year. Prior to her time on the board, she spent 20 years on the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board. Her background in local politics mirrors her father’s path, which included serving as a member of the TUSD Governing Board and as a Pima County Supervisor.
In her announcement, Grijalva made it clear that her focus will be on continuing the work her father began, particularly on issues such as education and immigration. However, she acknowledged that the current political climate presents new challenges, making it even more crucial to take action.
“We’re not living in normal times,” she remarked, referencing the current political administration. She described the situation as one where “our entire democracy is being dismantled,” urging voters not to sit idle during these uncertain times.
In a strongly worded press release, Grijalva made it clear that she views the current political leadership as a threat to the nation’s values. “Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and their gang of billionaires are destroying our nation,” she said. “They’re destroying our schools. They’re attacking our most sacred rights. They’re poisoning our environment. But together, we will stop them. This fight starts right here, right now, in southern Arizona.”
Despite her strong criticism of current political figures, Grijalva also emphasized the need for cooperation across party lines. She cited water resources as an example of a bipartisan issue that affects communities across the state, regardless of political affiliation. This approach, she believes, will allow her to make meaningful change for all of Arizona’s residents.
A Listening Tour and Immediate Action
As part of her campaign, Grijalva announced plans to visit various parts of her district to hear directly from constituents. Her listening tour will begin in Yuma, where she intends to gather input from communities across the region.
“I’m not the smartest one in the room, but I’m going to work the hardest,” Grijalva said, showing her commitment to engaging with people who have lived experiences that differ from her own. She also noted that she is stepping down from her current position on the Pima County Board of Supervisors to allow for the district to be properly represented while she focuses on her congressional campaign.
Upcoming Elections
The primary election for Arizona’s 7th Congressional District is scheduled for July 15, with the general election taking place on September 23. Grijalva’s district spans six counties, including Pima, Santa Cruz, Yuma, Cochise, Maricopa, and Pinal, as well as several tribal nations. It is a diverse region, with 60% of the population identifying as Hispanic.
Currently, 40% of voters in the district are registered Democrats, 37% are independents, and 21% are Republicans. The district has a reputation for leaning Democratic, but Grijalva is likely to face tough competition from both parties.
Competition in the Race
Adelita Grijalva will not have an easy path to securing the congressional seat. Several other prominent figures have expressed interest in running. The most notable challenger in the Democratic primary is Daniel Hernandez, a former state representative who has a significant political history, particularly following his involvement in the 2011 Tucson shooting, where he saved former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.
A total of 13 Democrats have filed statements of interest to run, while 10 Republicans and several third-party candidates are also vying for the seat. The race is expected to be highly competitive, with many candidates aiming to continue the legacy of Raúl Grijalva or to chart a new course for the district.
A Personal Commitment
In her announcement, Grijalva also reflected on the personal nature of her decision to run. “I’m very, very sad some of the time,” she admitted, acknowledging the emotional weight of her father’s death and the responsibility she now faces. However, she said she must remain focused on her mission, especially for her family.
“I’m a mom and an oldest daughter, so I have to keep it together to take care of everybody else,” she said, emphasizing the importance of this congressional seat for both her family and the future of Southern Arizona.
“I think I’m the best to do this right now,” Grijalva concluded, expressing her confidence in her ability to follow in her father’s footsteps and serve the people of Arizona.
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