Az Sec of State Adrian Fontes Bows Out of Grijalva’s Congressional Seat Race

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes announced on Wednesday that he will not be running in the special election for Congressional District 7, which was vacated following the death of U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva on March 13 due to lung cancer.

Fontes, a Democrat, had contemplated a candidacy but ultimately decided it was crucial to remain as Arizona’s chief elections officer. He expressed concerns about potential disruptions in the upcoming 2026 election cycle under President Donald Trump’s administration.

In a prepared statement, Fontes reflected on his decision. “I have considered the pros and cons of running for Congress. It is clear to me that our party must fight harder to stand against the rising tide of fascism sweeping the nation,” he stated. He emphasized the importance of his role in defending democracy and supporting his family during these turbulent times.

Fontes specifically noted his apprehensions regarding an executive order issued by Trump this week that affects how states manage elections. This order instructs states to halt the counting of mail-in ballots that arrive after Election Day, compounding existing laws requiring ballots to be collected by 7 p.m. on Election Day in Arizona.

Further complicating the electoral landscape, the executive order mandates proof of citizenship for voting in local, state, and federal elections. While Arizona currently requires proof for state and local votes, voters using federal registration forms are permitted to register without such documentation.

Trump’s rhetoric has frequently suggested without evidence that non-citizens are voting illegally, raising concerns among state officials. The order also compels states to share their voter registration data with Department of Homeland Security officials, raising questions about voter privacy and compliance.

Fontes voiced his concerns regarding the implications of Trump’s actions, asserting, “With this week’s executive order from the Trump administration, I firmly believe the president is laying the groundwork to cancel elections in 2026.”

In the wake of Grijalva’s passing, former state lawmaker Daniel Hernandez expressed his intent to run in CD 7. He articulated a desire to be a voice for programs endangered by the current administration’s policies. Grijalva’s daughter, Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, is also expected to run, though she has stated she will wait until after her father’s funeral to make an announcement.

Governor Katie Hobbs has called for a special primary election on July 15 in CD 7, where 40 percent of voters are registered Democrats, 21 percent Republicans, and the remaining 39 percent are independents. Early voting will commence on June 18, with the general election scheduled for September 23.

Several other Democratic candidates have signaled interest, including Samuel Alegria and Patrick Harris Sr. Republican contenders include Daniel Butierrez Sr. and Bill Hunter III, among others. Libertarian and Green Party candidates have also filed to run.

To qualify for the primary ballot, Democratic candidates must gather at least 798 valid signatures, while Republicans need 564. Independent candidates seeking a place in the general election must collect approximately 4,431 valid signatures by April 14.

Congressional District 7 encompasses various precincts in Southern Arizona, including Tucson and Yuma. A significant proportion of voters—nearly 61 percent—reside in Pima County.