"U.S. Rep. Raúl Grijalva, an Arizona Democrat who was a fierce champion for national parks, passed away Thursday from complications related to cancer treatments. He was 77.
"More than two decades ago, Rep. Grijalva embarked on a journey to be a voice for Southern Arizonans in Washington, D.C. Driven by his community values and spirit, he worked tirelessly and accomplished so much — for Arizona and for the country," a release from his office read.
Grijalva announced last spring that he had been diagnosed with cancer, although he didn't specify what kind. "This diagnosis has been difficult to process, but I am confident in the vigorous course of treatment that my medical team has developed, and I’ve begun my journey to fight this cancer," he said at the time.
Until he stepped down in December, Grijalva had been the ranking member on the House Natural Resources Committee for five years. While the Democrat had won re-election in December, he also said it would be his last term."
Kurt Repanshek reports for National Parks Traveler March 13, 2025.
SEE ALSO:
"‘A Legacy That Is Unmatched:' Tributes Pour In For Longtime Arizona Congressman Raúl Grijalva" (AP)
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