Longtime Arizona Representative Raul Grijalva Passes Away at 77 After Battle with Lung Cancer
Longtime Arizona Representative Raul Grijalva, a Democratic stalwart who served the state for over two decades in Congress, has passed away at the age of 77. His office confirmed his death on Thursday, citing complications arising from treatment for lung cancer. Grijalva’s passing marks a significant loss for Arizona’s political landscape and for the Democratic Party, where he was a respected voice on issues ranging from environmental protection to immigration reform.
Grijalva’s diagnosis of lung cancer was made public in April 2024, after he sought medical attention for a persistent cough initially suspected to be pneumonia. Further examination revealed the presence of cancer, prompting him to take a leave of absence from his duties on Capitol Hill to undergo treatment.
In a statement released at the time of his diagnosis, Grijalva shared the news with his constituents, acknowledging the difficult journey ahead. While he initially refrained from specifying the type of cancer, he later revealed in an interview with the Arizona Daily Star that he was battling lung cancer.
The congressman’s battle with the disease took a personal turn when he shared his experience of quitting smoking, a habit he had maintained for many years. “One thing came out of this was good. I quit smoking,” Grijalva told the outlet, highlighting a silver lining amidst a challenging ordeal.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) emphasizes the strong link between smoking and lung cancer, stating that 80 to 90% of lung cancer deaths are attributed to smoking. Grijalva’s experience underscores this connection and serves as a reminder of the devastating health consequences associated with tobacco use.
Lung cancer often progresses without noticeable symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage. The CDC notes that many individuals diagnosed with the disease do not experience any symptoms early on. When symptoms do manifest, they can include persistent coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, hoarseness, coughing up blood, and recurrent respiratory infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
The American Cancer Society estimates that over 124,000 people in the United States will succumb to lung cancer this year, making it a leading cause of cancer-related deaths nationwide. The disease’s high mortality rate underscores the importance of early detection, prevention efforts, and continued research into more effective treatments.
Raul Grijalva dedicated his life to public service, advocating for the interests of his constituents and championing progressive causes throughout his career. Prior to his election to Congress, he served on the Pima County Board of Supervisors, where he established a reputation as a strong advocate for environmental protection and social justice.
In Congress, Grijalva represented Arizona’s 3rd congressional district, a predominantly Hispanic district in the southern part of the state. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a prominent voice on issues affecting the Latino community, Native American tribes, and the environment.
He was a vocal critic of the Trump administration’s policies on immigration and border security, and he consistently fought for comprehensive immigration reform that would provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. He also championed the rights of Native American tribes, working to protect tribal lands and promote economic development in tribal communities.
As a staunch environmentalist, Grijalva was a strong advocate for protecting public lands and combating climate change. He served as the ranking member, and later chairman, of the House Natural Resources Committee, where he played a key role in shaping environmental policy. He was a leading voice in the fight to protect the Grand Canyon from uranium mining and to preserve the biodiversity of the Sonoran Desert.
Grijalva’s commitment to his constituents and his unwavering dedication to his principles earned him the respect of colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He was known for his ability to work across party lines to find common ground on important issues, while remaining true to his progressive values.
News of Grijalva’s passing has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes from fellow lawmakers, community leaders, and constituents. Many have praised his tireless advocacy, his commitment to social justice, and his deep love for Arizona. His legacy as a dedicated public servant and a champion of the people will undoubtedly endure for years to come.
The loss of Representative Grijalva leaves a void in the Arizona delegation and in the broader national political landscape. His unwavering voice, his deep understanding of the issues facing his constituents, and his commitment to fighting for a more just and equitable society will be sorely missed.
As the nation mourns his passing, it is important to remember the impact that Raul Grijalva had on Arizona and on the lives of countless individuals. His legacy serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to make a difference in the world and to fight for the values they believe in.
Fernando Cervantes Jr., a trending news reporter for USA TODAY, can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on X @fern_cerv_.
