Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) died at the age of 77 on Thursday after experiencing “complications” from his lung cancer treatments.
In a Thursday statement, the Democrat lawmaker’s office staff said it was “saddened to announce the passing of Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva” and noted that Grijalva “fought a long and brave battle.”
Grijalva’s staff wrote, “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.”
According to Fox News, Grijalva was known in Congress for his work as part of the House Natural Resources Committee.
In Thursday’s statement, Grijalva’s office emphasized that the Democrat representative’s “proudest moments” in Congress were “guided by community voices” as he worked on policies such as “permanently protecting” the Grand Canyon and “strengthening” the Affordable Care Act.
His staff wrote, “He led the charge for historic investments in climate action, port of entry modernization, permanent funding for land and water conservation programs, access to health care for tribal communities and the uninsured, fairness for immigrant families and Dreamers, student loan forgiveness, stronger protections for farmers and workers exposed to extreme heat, early childhood education expansion, higher standards for tribal consultation, and so much more.”
READ MORE: GOP lawmaker suffers ‘severe concussion,’ brain bleed
Last April, Grijalva released a statement confirming that he had been diagnosed with cancer after receiving medical treatment for a “persistent cough” that doctors first believed was the result of pneumonia. Fox News reported that the Democrat lawmaker had faced scrutiny for missing multiple congressional votes during his cancer treatment over the past year.
“We are heartbroken in the face of this news but determined to carry on his legacy.” Grijalva’s office added. “While the special election is being carried out, our office will continue to provide constituent services.”
Following the announcement of the Democrat lawmaker’s death, Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) released a statement in honor of Grijalva on X, formerly Twitter. Ocasio-Cortez described Grijalva’s death as a “genuinely devastating loss.”
“Raúl Grijalva stood as one of the biggest champions for working people in all of Congress,” Ocasio-Cortez tweeted. “His leadership was singular. He mentored generously and was an incredible friend. I will always be grateful for his lifelong courage and commitment.”
Rep. Juan Ciscomani (R-Ariz.) also released a statement regarding the congressman’s death. Ciscomani described Grijalva as a “dedicated public servant” and a “fearless champion of the causes he believed in.”
“While we often disagreed about public policy, he welcomed me into our congressional delegation warmly and always treated me with respect and dignity,” Ciscomani added.