Republicans Clash Over Immigration in Arizona’s Grijalva Seat Debate

Heated Debate Erupts Among Republican Candidates for Arizona's Congressional Seat

The race to fill the congressional seat vacated by the late Raúl Grijalva in Arizona’s southern district saw a vigorous debate on Thursday in Phoenix. Daniel Butierez and Jorge Rivas, competing for the Republican nomination, focused on key issues including immigration policy. Jimmy Rodriguez, another contender, was notably missing from the debate, having withdrawn unexpectedly.

Both Butierez and Rivas expressed their support for the immigration policies of former President Donald Trump, yet they offered contrasting views on how these policies should be implemented. Butierez, a previous candidate for the same seat, emphasized the importance of excluding law enforcement from educational and religious institutions, proclaiming, “I don’t think law enforcement should be going into our schools or our churches. I believe they should be sanctuary areas.”

On the other hand, Rivas firmly opposed selective enforcement of immigration laws, declaring, “We cannot pick and choose where we enforce the laws, we cannot pick and choose when we enforce the laws. If we do that, then we become a banana republic.” Despite their differing strategies, both candidates recognized the necessity of deportation, including for migrants seeking asylum, clearly stating that the U.S. should not be held accountable for global governance issues.

The debate also addressed economic matters, with both candidates supporting Trump’s tariffs and backing a House-passed bill aimed at significant cuts to Medicaid and other welfare programs. As the primary election approaches on July 15, followed by the general election in September, these discussions give insight into the candidates' positions on vital issues that impact Arizona residents.