Adelita Grijalva Wins Democratic Primary in Arizona

The daughter of the late Arizona Democrat, Rep. Raul Grijalva, is making strides towards achieving her father’s legacy in Congress. Former Pima County manager Adelita Grijalva has emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for Arizona’s 7th Congressional District, according to reports.

Grijalva, at 54, has triumphed over four other candidates in this predominantly Democratic district, which stretches from Tucson to Yuma, encompassing almost the entire southern border with Mexico. She garnered support from prominent figures within the state, including Senators Mark Kelly and Reuben Gallego, Attorney General Chris Mays, and former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.

Raul Grijalva passed away at the age of 77 earlier this year.

Moreover, the younger Grijalva received endorsements from progressive champions such as Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez from New York.

In contrast, 25-year-old Deja Foxx, a social media influencer and activist, also put her hat in the ring, eager to make a dynamic impact in the race. Foxx had previously gained attention during a viral moment advocating for reproductive rights against former Republican Senator Jeff Flake and aimed to shift the narrative in the competitive Democratic primary.

It’s worth noting that Foxx had recently stepped down from her role as vice-chairman of the Democratic National Committee, opting to challenge the party’s leadership after years of service.

David Hogg, who campaigned alongside Foxx, expressed optimism, claiming they would “make history in southwestern Arizona.” He drew parallels between Foxx’s rising polls and the succesful campaign of Mamdani, a Ugandan-born state legislator who recently gained attention in a contested election.

Political experts are closely watching this primary, likening it to New York City’s mayoral contest, as it may reflect the broader direction of the Democratic Party amid ongoing tensions between the establishment and more progressive factions.

Former state lawmaker Daniel Hernandez, well-regarded for his heroism during the 2011 Tucson shooting, is also in the race, along with indigenous activist Jose Malvid Jr. and former medical executive Patrick Harris Sr., competing for the Democratic nomination in a district where Democrats have a significant edge over Republicans.

With over $2 million spent on advertising for this Democratic primary, including contributions from outside organizations, Adelita Grijalva appears to be a frontrunner leading into the special election set for September 23rd. This election will fill the remaining 15 months of her father’s term following his death from complications related to cancer treatment in March.