There has actually been not one, but two Senators to pass away this week – one current and one former. 93-year-old former US Senate Al Simpson passed away this week, but additionally, longtime Arizona Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva has passed away at the age of 77, his office announced Thursday morning. The Democratic representative, who served Arizona’s 7th District for over two decades, died from complications related to his cancer treatments.
Grijalva, a staunch progressive, was first elected in 2002 and built his political career on environmental activism, open-border policies, and government-funded social programs. He was a fierce advocate for illegal immigrant protections, climate regulations, and expansive federal spending, often prioritizing left-wing policies that dramatically reshaped Arizona’s political landscape.
A Career in Progressive Politics
For over 20 years, Grijalva was a key figure in the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where he pushed radical environmental policies, opposed stricter immigration enforcement, and championed student loan forgiveness. He played a major role in securing permanent protections for the Grand Canyon, while also supporting sweeping climate change regulations that critics argued crippled Arizona’s energy sector.
His legacy includes advocating for looser border security and stronger labor protections for illegal immigrants, often placing non-citizens’ interests above Arizona’s struggling middle-class workforce. He also fought to expand the Affordable Care Act (ACA), despite its ballooning costs and negative impact on private healthcare.
Public Reaction and Political Fallout
While many progressives mourn his passing, conservatives see his legacy as one that contributed to the unchecked growth of government, soaring national debt, and worsening border crises.
His support for extreme environmental policies and government overreach made him a polarizing figure, particularly among Arizona’s ranchers, business owners, and border security advocates. His tenure was marked by strong opposition to President Trump’s immigration enforcement policies, including calls to abolish ICE and legal protections for sanctuary cities.
Despite his illness, Grijalva remained politically active until the end, offering parting words that urged unity but ignored the deep divisions his policies helped create.
What Happens Next?
Grijalva’s passing leaves a major vacancy in Arizona’s 7th Congressional District, triggering a special election to fill his seat. Republicans see an opportunity to regain ground in a state that has been shifting left in recent elections, while Democrats will scramble to find a replacement who can carry Grijalva’s progressive torch.
As Arizona prepares for a new chapter, one thing is certain: Grijalva’s far-left policies will remain a point of contention in the ongoing fight for the future of Arizona and the nation.
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