Ian Brickey, ian.brickey@sierraclub.org
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.) announced that 2024 would be his final re-election campaign. The announcement marks the upcoming close of a two-decade career representing Arizona in the United States House of Representatives.
Grijalva was first elected to the House in 2002, and over the next 20 years, he established a strong record advocating for environmental protection, Indigenous and Tribal rights, and climate action. During his tenure in Congress, Grijalva chaired the House Natural Resources Committee for four years. Legislatively he permanently reauthorized and permanently funded the Land and Water Conservation Act; helped pass multiple public lands packages, most recently the 2019 Dingell Act, that have protected millions of acres of public lands; sponsored and passed the Environmental Justice For All Act; and protected the Grand Canyon and other parks and special places from mining and development.
In February 2024, Grijalva was diagnosed with cancer and began treatment.
In response, Athan Manuel, director of Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program, released the following statement:
“For more than 20 years, our public lands have had no greater friend than Raul Grijalva. His passion, advocacy, and leadership have protected precious landscapes for future generations, honored the Tribes who have stewarded these lands since time immemorial, and offered a hopeful vision for taking on the climate crisis. As he prepares to conclude his service in Congress, he has built a powerful legacy that should serve as an inspiration for others who seek to preserve the public lands and waters we love.”
About the Sierra Club
The Sierra Club is America’s largest and most influential grassroots environmental organization, with millions of members and supporters. In addition to protecting every person's right to get outdoors and access the healing power of nature, the Sierra Club works to promote clean energy, safeguard the health of our communities, protect wildlife, and preserve our remaining wild places through grassroots activism, public education, lobbying, and legal action. For more information, visit www.sierraclub.org.