Top Arizona election official mulling bid for key congressional seat
Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, is considering running for the late Rep. Raúl Grijalva’s seat in Congress following Grijalva’s recent passing. This potential decision has the potential to cause a significant shift in the state’s political landscape, as Grijalva had held the seat since 2003 before his death at the age of 77 due to lung cancer.
Fontes, in a statement released on Tuesday, expressed his admiration for Congressman Grijalva and his years of service to the state. Fontes, who was born and raised in AZ-07, where the seat is located, served in the Marine Corps and has a background in protecting democracy. He indicated that he is strongly considering a run for the seat and will provide more details in the days ahead while also honoring the late Congressman’s life and legacy.
If Fontes decides to pursue the congressional seat, he would need to step down from his current role as Secretary of State, and Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs would be responsible for appointing his replacement. The next regular election for the Secretary of State’s office is scheduled for 2026, with the Secretary of State assuming the role of acting governor in the absence of the governor.
Fontes’ potential shift towards running for Congress marks a departure from previous reports suggesting he was contemplating a primary challenge against Gov. Hobbs in the 2026 gubernatorial race, which is anticipated to be highly competitive. Grijalva’s daughter, Pima County Supervisor Adelita Grijalva, has also hinted at a possible entry into the race but is waiting until after her father’s funeral to make a decision.
The special primary election for the vacant congressional seat is set for July 15, followed by the general election on September 23. Grijalva had previously won the November election with a significant majority of over 63% of the vote. Other potential Democratic candidates, such as Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and state Rep. Alma Hernandez, have opted not to run in the special election.
The district where the seat is located encompasses a significant portion along Arizona’s southern border, an area that has become a focal point in national discussions due to the ongoing migrant and drug crisis. The outcome of the special election will undoubtedly have broader implications for the state and the nation as a whole.
In conclusion, Arizona’s political landscape is poised for a potential shakeup with the prospect of Fontes vying for Grijalva’s former congressional seat. As the state prepares for the special election, the decision on who will succeed Grijalva will undoubtedly have lasting impacts on the future direction of Arizona’s representation in Congress.
