The U.S. House of Representatives was scheduled to convene for a pro forma legislative session on Friday amidst the ongoing government shutdown. Democrats emphasize the urgency of swearing in Adelita Grijalva, who emerged victorious in a special election in Arizona over three weeks ago but has not yet taken the oath of office.
Adelita Grijalva, a lifelong Arizona resident, has a background as a program director in a juvenile court in Pima County. She has also held elected positions on local school and political boards. At 54 years old, she is married and has three children.
Grijalva decided to enter federal politics by running for Arizona’s 7th Congressional District, left vacant after her father, Raul Grijalva, passed away earlier this year. He had served in Congress for more than two decades. Adelita won the special election on September 23, securing 69% of the vote against her Republican challenger.
The delay in swearing in Grijalva has been attributed to the ongoing government shutdown since October 1. House Speaker Mike Johnson has not scheduled any floor votes during this period, despite occasional pro forma sessions that do not involve voting. Some Democrats criticize Johnson for the delay, citing his earlier commitment to swear Grijalva in promptly.
In response to the controversy, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries issued a letter demanding Grijalva’s immediate swearing-in to prevent partisan advantages that could compromise the House’s integrity. The situation was contrasted with recent instances where Republican representatives were swiftly sworn in after special elections.
The delay in seating Grijalva led Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes to threaten legal action against Speaker Johnson. Democrats believe the delay is strategic, aimed at avoiding a vote related to Jeffrey Epstein’s investigations, which have been a contentious issue linked to the Trump administration.
Republican Rep. Thomas Massie’s efforts to push for the release of federal files on Epstein have further heightened tensions within the party. Grijalva’s commitment to signing a discharge petition related to Epstein once she assumes office underscores the significance of her swearing-in.
The contentious situation surrounding Grijalva’s swearing-in has raised concerns among Democrats and Republicans alike, with allegations of partisanship and strategic delays overshadowing the pivotal issue at hand.