Adelita Grijalva Steps Up to Claim Her Late Father’s Congressional Seat

By Matthew Holloway |

Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, the daughter of the late Congressman Raúl Grijalva, has announced her resignation from office effective April 4th. She will promptly enter the primary race for her father’s congressional seat. Tucson Mayor Regina Romero will serve as chair for Grijalva’s campaign.

In a press release, Grijalva outlined her motivations for running, emphasizing her commitment to oppose the agenda of former President Donald Trump. She criticized tech mogul Elon Musk, describing him as part of a “gang of billionaires” undermining the nation’s foundations.

Grijalva stated, “I am running for Congress because Southern Arizona deserves bold leadership that will fight for working families and stand up to Donald Trump.” She further argued that their actions are detrimental to schools, rights, and the environment, asserting, “Together, we will stop them.”

She highlighted her extensive advocacy history, spanning two decades on the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board and her current role on the Pima County Board of Supervisors. “In Congress, I will work to create opportunities for all families to achieve their American Dream,” she added.

Speaking with AZ Luminaria, Grijalva described the current political climate as extraordinary and criticized the Trump administration for threatening democracy. She plans to embark on a listening tour in the coming week, beginning in Yuma, to engage with constituents about their experiences.

Grijalva will face competition in the Democratic primary from former State Representative Daniel Hernandez and several other candidates. Meanwhile, ten Republicans have expressed interest in the congressional seat, with Daniel Butierez noted as a leading contender in the GOP primary. The Cook Political Report rates District 7 as a Democratic stronghold, designated at D+15.

The late Congressman Grijalva held his House seat for over two decades, facing various redistricting challenges. In the 2024 election, he defeated Butierez by a significant margin of 26.8%.

Matthew Holloway is a senior reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.