Kelly Honors the Life and Legacy of Congressman Raúl Grijalva

“A devoted fighter for justice and working families”

Today, Arizona Senator Mark Kelly entered a statement into the Congressional Record honoring the life and legacy of former Congressman Raúl Grijalva, who passed away earlier this month after a long and brave battle with cancer.   

Grijalva represented Southern Arizona in the U.S House of Representatives for more than two decades and spent over 50 years in public service championing environmental justice, expansions to health care access, immigrant rights, and investments in education and infrastructure.  

“Raúl was a man of compassion and conviction, driven by his belief in doing the right thing. He spent his life fighting for the people of Southern Arizona, and his leadership was rooted in a deep understanding of the challenges facing his constituents,” said Kelly in his statement. “As the son of immigrants, he knew firsthand what it meant to fight for better healthcare, labor protections, education, and economic opportunity for everyone. He was a champion to those who have been left out of the conversation, and he leaves a legacy of making sure everyone had a voice in the Halls of Congress.”

Kelly continued, “Raúl’s leadership on the House Natural Resources Committee was instrumental in advancing landmark legislation to combat climate change, preserve public lands, and safeguard water resources critical to Arizona and the Southwest. He led the charge to protect the Grand Canyon for future generations. His commitment to conservation, climate action, and tribal sovereignty is a testament to his love for the state he called home.” 

“Raúl’s story is an American story—one of perseverance, service, and an unshakable belief in the promise of this country. Arizona is better, our nation is better because of his service,” Kelly concluded. 

The full text of the statement is available here.