In a scheduled pro forma legislative session during the ongoing three-week government shutdown, the U.S. House of Representatives was expected to convene to address the swearing-in of Adelita Grijalva, a newly elected representative from Arizona. Grijalva, who won a special election over three weeks ago, has yet to take the oath of office, sparking concerns among Democrats about a potential delay orchestrated by House Speaker Mike Johnson.
Adelita Grijalva, a lifelong Arizona resident, has a background in working as a program director for a juvenile court in Pima Country and has held elected positions in local educational and political boards. At 54 years old, Grijalva is married with three children. Following the passing of her father, Raul, who served in Congress for over two decades, Grijalva decided to run for the vacant seat in Arizona’s 7th Congressional District. She secured victory in the special election held on September 23, garnering 69% of the votes against her Republican opponent.
The delay in Grijalva’s swearing-in is attributed to the ongoing government shutdown since October 1, with Speaker Johnson under scrutiny for allegedly postponing the process. Johnson’s shifting statements have drawn criticism, especially after remarks perceived as condescending towards Grijalva. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries has urged Johnson to swear in Grijalva promptly, emphasizing the importance of upholding the integrity of the institution.
Democrats have accused Johnson of deliberately stalling the swearing-in to avoid a potential vote related to demands for transparency in investigations concerning Jeffrey Epstein. Grijalva’s pledge to sign a discharge petition calling for the release of federal files on Epstein has raised concerns among Republicans. Some Republicans, including California Rep. Kevin Kiley, have voiced their support for Grijalva’s prompt swearing-in, emphasizing her status as a duly elected member of Congress.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has threatened legal action against Johnson for the delay, highlighting the lack of representation for Arizonans due to Grijalva not being sworn in. The Epstein factor plays a significant role in the delay, with Republican Rep. Thomas Massie leading efforts to trigger a vote on releasing federal files related to Epstein. Democrats believe Johnson’s reluctance to swear in Grijalva is linked to avoiding any vote associated with Epstein, a controversial issue that has implications for the Trump administration.
The unfolding saga surrounding Epstein’s associations and the demand for transparency in the investigations have heightened tensions within the House, with Grijalva’s pending swearing-in becoming a focal point of contention. The push for swift action and the potential legal consequences underscore the gravity of the situation as the political landscape navigates the complexities surrounding the Epstein case and its ramifications.