In a striking turn of events, David Hogg, a well-known advocate for gun control, has openly criticized the Democratic Party after a significant electoral setback in Arizona.
According to Breitbart, the criticism comes on the heels of a special election loss for Hogg’s PAC-supported candidate, Deja Foxx, who was defeated by Adelita Grijalva in a contest prompted by the death of Rep. Raúl Grijalva.
The sequence of events began with the passing of Rep. Raúl Grijalva, a Democratic representative from Arizona, on March 13, 2025. His death necessitated a special election to fill the vacant seat in Arizona’s congressional delegation. This election was held on Tuesday, drawing significant attention due to the candidates involved.
Among the contenders was Adelita Grijalva, the daughter of the late Rep. Raúl Grijalva, who ran to succeed her father. Opposing her was Deja Foxx, a candidate backed by David Hogg’s political action committee. Foxx represented Hogg’s vision of infusing the Democratic Party with youthful, progressive energy.
On election day, the results were decisive and clear. With 77 percent of the votes tallied, Adelita Grijalva secured a commanding 62 percent of the vote, as reported by The New York Times. In contrast, Deja Foxx garnered only 21.1 percent, marking a substantial defeat.
The outcome was a blow to Hogg’s efforts to steer the Democratic Party toward a more activist-driven future. Just two days after the election, on Thursday, Hogg took to social media to express his frustration. His comments were sharp and pointed directly at the Democratic establishment.
In his statement, Hogg did not hold back his disappointment with the party’s current state. He declared, "The Democratic Party’s approval rating is one of the lowest it has ever been." He continued, "It’s beyond time for do-nothing Democrats to get out."
Hogg further emphasized, "If you can’t see the problem, you ARE the problem." In the same breath, he added, "Healthy competition in our primaries is an asset to be utilized – not a liability to be managed." These words reflect his belief that the party must embrace internal challenges to grow stronger.
Hogg’s background as a staunch supporter of gun control has often placed him in the spotlight. He previously served as vice chair of the Democratic National Committee, giving him insight into party dynamics. His latest remarks suggest a deep frustration with the direction and responsiveness of Democratic leadership.
The Arizona special election was more than just a local contest for Hogg. It symbolized a test of whether his strategy to promote far-left, younger candidates could gain traction within the party. The loss of Deja Foxx indicates that this approach may face significant hurdles ahead.
Adelita Grijalva’s victory, on the other hand, showcases the enduring influence of established political families in Arizona. Her substantial margin of victory suggests strong voter support for continuity over change. This outcome may embolden traditional Democratic factions in future primaries.
For Hogg, the defeat in Arizona is a setback, but his resolve appears unshaken. His public critique signals a willingness to challenge the party openly, even at the risk of alienating allies. This boldness could either inspire reform or deepen divisions within Democratic circles. The broader implications of Hogg’s comments remain to be seen. With the Democratic Party already grappling with internal debates, his call for competition in primaries might resonate with some activists. Yet, it could also be perceived as divisive by those prioritizing unity.
As a prominent figure, Hogg’s influence on younger voters and activists is notable. His focus on gun control and progressive causes has earned him a dedicated following over the years. This latest episode might further galvanize his base to push for change within the party. Meanwhile, Adelita Grijalva’s win ensures that her father’s legacy continues in Arizona politics. Her strong performance at the polls reflects voter confidence in her ability to represent their interests. It also underscores the challenges outsiders face when competing against familiar names.
Looking ahead, Hogg’s criticism could spark discussions about the Democratic Party’s future strategy. Will the party heed his call for more open primaries and internal competition? Or will it maintain its current structure, potentially alienating voices like his? The Arizona election and its aftermath highlight the tensions between tradition and transformation within the Democratic Party. Hogg’s outspokenness, paired with Grijalva’s decisive victory, paints a complex picture of competing visions. As these dynamics unfold, the party faces critical decisions about its direction in the coming years.