Voters in Arizona’s 7th Congressional District will head to the polls in 2026 to select their representative in the U.S. House, a role that includes crafting federal legislation, overseeing the executive branch and representing constituents across a geographically diverse region.
Members of Congress are responsible for proposing and voting on laws, establishing the federal budget and responding to the needs of their districts. Arizona’s 7th District includes communities such as Avondale, Litchfield Park, Tolleson, Buckeye, Tucson, Yuma and Nogales, spanning urban centers, border areas and rural communities.
The primary election is scheduled for July 21, with the general election set for Nov. 3.
Two candidates have emerged in the race: Republican Daniel Francis Butierez Sr. and Democratic incumbent Adelita Grijalva.
Daniel Francis Butierez Sr.
Daniel Francis Butierez Sr. is a business owner and Republican candidate for Arizona’s 7th Congressional District.
According to his campaign statement, Butierez says he was wrongfully convicted in Pima County and spent about 10 years in prison, followed by decades seeking justice. After his release, he experienced homelessness and struggled with substance use before later changing his circumstances.
He went on to establish Butierez/Express Painting, a business that employs several dozen workers depending on demand. His campaign highlights his personal experiences and emphasizes second chances, workforce participation and economic opportunity.
Butierez presents his background as shaping his views on the criminal justice system and employment, and says he aims to represent individuals facing economic and personal challenges.
Adelita Grijalva
Adelita Grijalva is the incumbent U.S. representative for Arizona’s 7th Congressional District and the Democratic candidate in the race.
Grijalva, a Southern Arizona resident, was elected in 2025 to complete the term of her father, former U.S. Rep. Raúl M. Grijalva. She previously worked in the Pima County Teen Court system and later served on the Tucson Unified School District Governing Board after first being elected in 2002.
In 2020, she was elected to the Pima County Board of Supervisors, where she later served as chair. Her work in local government included efforts related to housing, early childhood education and environmental conservation.
Her campaign emphasizes her experience in public service and focuses on issues such as education access, economic opportunity and environmental policy.
The race highlights differing backgrounds and priorities as candidates compete to represent one of Arizona’s most expansive congressional districts.
More information is available at elections.maricopa.gov. Check Independent Newsmedia in print and online yourvalley.net for continuing elections coverage.
James Goldmeer Reporter | Goodyear & Litchfield Park
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
By 
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here