Grijalva, Butierez Debate Arizona CD7 Special Election Seat

Democrat Adelita Grijalva and Republican Daniel Butierez are set to debate ahead of the special general election for Arizona's 7th Congressional District, a seat left vacant by the death of longtime Congressman Raúl Grijalva. The debate will take place at 6 p.m. on August 26 and will be broadcast live on multiple platforms, including Arizona Public Media, ABC15, and KVOA, with no live audience allowed. Adelita Grijalva, the late congressman's daughter and former Pima County Supervisor, won the Democratic primary decisively, while Butierez, a painting company owner who previously challenged Raúl Grijalva, won the Republican primary with a similar margin. This election is considered significant due to the district's geographic and demographic diversity and its potential impact on regional power dynamics, border policies, and economic growth. Two other candidates from the Green Party and No Labels will appear on the ballot but are excluded from the televised debate due to low primary vote shares. The general election is scheduled for September 23, with the debate serving as a critical opportunity for voters to evaluate the main contenders.