Arizona U.S. Representative Raúl Grijalva will reportedly remain in Arizona while he receives treatment following his recent cancer diagnosis.
Grijalva disclosed that he had cancer on April 2, revealing the discovery was made after he sought treatment for a persistent cough. The congressman did not reveal any medical details about his diagnosis, including the type of cancer and stage, but acknowledged that it “has been difficult to process.”
At the time, a spokesman for Grijalva told Fox News the cancer treatments were not expected to keep the congressman from continuing his official duties, but The Arizona Republic reported Monday that a separate spokesman did not “have a timeline for the congressman’s return” on Monday.
Should Grijalva decide to resign due to his condition, the Arizona Constitution mandates Governor Katie Hobbs immediately call a special election to select his replacement within 72 hours of the resignation. That election would be held prior to the November elections, between 120 and 133 days following its announcement.
However, should Grijalva resign less than six months before the November 5 general elections, Grijalva’s successor would be determined during the normal election for his seat. Grijalva could choose to resign any time after May 5 without his decision prompting a special election.
In his original statement about his illness, Grijalva confirmed, “My congressional office remains open and the many services we provide for our constituents continue uninterrupted.”
He also stated that he is “in regular communication with my staff” and would “continue to work as I undergo treatment.”
The news that Grijalva will remain in Arizona comes as Republicans reportedly warn the party could lose control of the House of Representatives prior to the November elections after a number of high profile resignations since the ousting of former Representative Kevin McCarthy as Majority Leader.
McCarthy announced his resignation after he was ousted from leadership. He was followed by Representatives Bill Johnson and Ken Buck, while Representative Mike Gallagher (R-WI-08) is expected to resign later this month.
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Tom Pappert is the lead reporter for The Tennessee Star, and also reports for The Georgia Star News, The Virginia Star, and the Arizona Sun Times. Follow Tom on X/Twitter. Email tips to [email protected].
Photo “Rep. Raul Grijalva” by Rep. Raul Grijalva.
