Washington — Arizona Democratic Representative Raúl Grijalva passed away Thursday morning following “a long and courageous fight” against cancer, as confirmed by his office.
“He succumbed this morning due to complications arising from his cancer treatments,” the statement from his office said.
The 77-year-old Grijalva revealed his cancer diagnosis in April after seeking treatment for a chronic cough, initially thought to be pneumonia. He described the diagnosis as “challenging to come to terms with.” In July, Grijalva announced that he had completed his cancer treatments “for the time being” and was focusing on regaining his physical strength to return to his duties in Washington, D.C.
Having represented Congress since 2003, the veteran lawmaker has been absent from votes throughout this year.
“It was a privilege for Raúl M. Grijalva to serve the people of Southern Arizona,” his office stated.
He is the second Democratic member of the House to pass away this month. Earlier in March, Democratic Representative Sylvester Turner of Texas died shortly after taking office.