Adrian Fontes considers congressional run in Arizona

Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes is considering a run for Congress to fill the seat left by Rep. Raúl Grijalva, who recently passed away from cancer at the age of 77. Grijalva had served in Congress since 2003. Fontes expressed admiration for Grijalva's legacy and stated he is seriously thinking about the race for Arizona's 7th Congressional District. He mentioned that he has personal ties to the area, having grown up there and served in the Marine Corps. If Fontes decides to run, he would need to resign from his position as Secretary of State. Arizona's "resign to run" law requires him to leave his role, and Governor Katie Hobbs would appoint a replacement. The next regular election for Secretary of State is not until 2026. Grijalva's daughter, Adelita Grijalva, is also contemplating a run for her father's seat. She indicated she would make a decision after her father's funeral. The special primary election for the vacant seat is set for July 15, with the general election following on September 23. Grijalva had secured over 63% of the vote in the last election. Other potential Democratic candidates, including Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and state Rep. Alma Hernandez, have decided not to participate in the special election.