Community engagement in Tucson as Hernandez launches his campaign.
Daniel Hernandez, a prominent figure in Arizona politics, has officially announced his candidacy for the U.S. Congressional seat in Arizona’s 7th District, following the death of long-time representative Raúl Grijalva. Hernandez aims to address key issues like healthcare and living costs while combating far-right extremism. With a primary election on July 15 and general election on September 23, he positions himself as a pragmatic candidate focused on community needs and progressive values despite past electoral challenges.
Excitement is in the air as Daniel Hernandez, a familiar face in Arizona politics, has officially launched his campaign for the highly coveted U.S. Congressional seat for Arizona’s 7th District. This announcement comes just days ahead of the funeral for the late Raúl Grijalva, a beloved figure who fiercely represented this district since 2002 until his recent passing from cancer on March 13, 2025.
For those who may not know, Hernandez isn’t just any candidate. He served in the Arizona House of Representatives from 2017 to 2023 and has made meaningful contributions, such as co-founding the Arizona House LGBTQ caucus. His political journey traces back to an impactful internship with congresswoman Gabby Giffords, where he bravery showed by providing lifesaving first aid during her tragic shooting incident in 2011. His commitment to service and community is undeniable!
What does Hernandez intend to focus on as he takes a leap into the Congressional race? His campaign messaging is clear and straightforward. He’s expressing a strong desire to combat what he refers to as ‘MAGA extremists‘ while prioritizing essential programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Additionally, he plans to tackle rising living costs that have become a pressing concern in the community.
Mark your calendars! Arizona is gearing up for a special primary election set for July 15, followed by the general election on September 23. Early voting begins on June 18, so anyone interested in making their voice heard should take note; registration closes on June 16. With over 40% of registered voters in the 7th District identifying as Democrats, this seat is viewed as a critical opportunity for candidates vying for a significant role in shaping national policy.
It’s worth mentioning that Hernandez has faced challenges in recent elections. He previously ran for the 6th Congressional District in 2022 but lost the primary to Kirsten Engel. However, he’s not letting past disappointments deter his ambitions. His campaign embodies a determination to serve the community that shaped him, keen on advocating for essential programs that might face cuts under a federal government moving away from progressive principles.
The race is shaping up to be competitive with several notable figures considering a run. Among those mentioned are Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and Grijalva’s own daughter, Adelita Grijalva. Hernandez plans to leverage his experience working in the Arizona state legislature, where he navigated a Republican-controlled environment, to build connections and push for positive changes in Washington, D.C.
Hernandez’s political style reflects a pragmatic approach, focusing on solutions rather than ideological battles. This positions him as a distinct candidate compared to the more vocal style of the late Grijalva. With endorsements expected to be revealed in the coming days, Hernandez is setting the stage for a robust campaign that emphasizes listening to the voters and addressing their most urgent needs.
As he gears up for the campaign trail, Hernandez continues to reflect on the recent November elections, expressing a desire for Democrats to better align with the priorities of constituents. With crucial issues like healthcare access and escalating living expenses on the table, he’s committed to fighting for policies that will truly benefit his community.
In a rapidly changing political landscape, this campaign presents an opportunity for Hernandez to realize his vision for a better Arizona and advocate for progress on critical social and economic matters. Stay tuned, Tucson! The race for the future of Arizona’s 7th Congressional District is heating up!
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