Deja Foxx Aims to Make History in Arizona’s 7th Congressional District

Tucson, Arizona – Deja Foxx, at just 25 years old, is making a strong bid to become the youngest and first Gen Z woman elected to Congress. She is campaigning in a special election for Arizona’s 7th Congressional District, where voters will select a primary candidate on July 15 to fill the vacancy left by the late Rep. Raúl Grijalva.

Grijalva, who served in Congress since 2002, was known for his progressive stance and advocacy for issues affecting the local community. He passed away earlier this year due to lung cancer. The general election is slated for September 2025, and Foxx aims to bring a fresh perspective to the congressional seat, differentiating herself from the established Democratic Party.

A Diverse Candidate Field

The primary race is already shaping up to be competitive, with notable candidates such as Adelita Grijalva, the late congressman’s daughter and a frontrunner, former state lawmaker Daniel Hernandez, Indigenous activist Jose Malvido Jr., and health care executive Patrick Harris Sr. Congressional District 7 is predominantly Democratic, encompassing much of Tucson and parts of the Phoenix metro area, along with significant portions of Cochise, La Paz, Maricopa, Pima, and Yuma counties.

Campaign Strategy Focused on Youth

Foxx is emphasizing her youth and personal experiences as central themes of her campaign. She argues that young voters are becoming increasingly engaged in politics and deserve representation that reflects their issues. Despite the demographic challenge of an older expected primary electorate, with many voters over the age of 50, Foxx remains optimistic about her appeal to younger constituents. She believes her unique background as a first-generation college graduate from Columbia University and her upbringing in Tucson under a single mother relying on Section 8 housing and food stamps connect her with voters who share similar struggles.

A History of Activism

Foxx gained national prominence during high school when she vocally confronted then-Senator Jeff Flake regarding Planned Parenthood funding, which resulted in a viral moment. Throughout her academic and professional life, she has led various activism efforts, including a student walkout after the Parkland shooting and participation in rallies focused on education and reproductive rights. Her involvement with Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign and a speech at the Democratic National Convention further highlights her commitment to political engagement.

Financial Backing and Online Presence

To fund her campaign, Foxx has reportedly raised around $500,000, primarily sourced from small donors. She credits her effective online storytelling and grassroots campaigning with reaching hundreds of thousands of voters without the need for substantial ad spending. This significant digital engagement has mirrored her commitment to modern political communication methods, appealing to younger audiences who are more likely to connect through social media.

Critique of the Establishment

In her campaign, Foxx expresses concerns about the Democratic establishment, claiming that figures like Biden are not adequately representing the contemporary issues facing younger voters. She argues that there is a disconnect, with established legislators losing touch with the pressing matters that directly affect the younger electorate. Foxx advocates for a new generation of leadership that can resonate with and address the needs of young Americans.

Public Speaking and Representation

Foxx’s debates have drawn attention due to her passionate speaking style and ability to relate directly to young voters’ experiences. She emphasizes the importance of representation and relatability in political office, asserting that candidates who share personal backgrounds and challenges will connect more authentically with their constituents. Her campaign has garnered considerable media attention and online engagement, positioning her as a notable figure in the current political landscape.