Arizona Democrat Grijalva Challenges GOP Leader Over Delayed Swearing-In

Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva of Arizona is raising concerns over the delayed swearing-in ceremony that has kept her from officially taking her seat in the House of Representatives. Grijalva won a special election on September 23, 2025, to replace her late father, former Congressman Raúl Grijalva. The delay comes as House Speaker Mike Johnson has stalled the ceremony, which Grijalva attributes to political motivations rather than procedural reasons.

During a recent appearance on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Grijalva stated, “The timing is the fact that I am the 218th signer to the discharge petition for the Epstein files.” This petition aims to compel the Justice Department to release all files related to the investigation into the late financier. Grijalva believes her support for this measure has made her a target for the Speaker’s delay, differentiating her from other legislators, such as Reps. Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine, who were swiftly sworn in after their special election victories.

Grijalva criticized Johnson, stating, “This idea that Congress is not in session is this speaker making that decision.” She emphasized that the delays are politically motivated, suggesting that her expected signature on the petition is a key factor. Johnson has previously stated that Grijalva will be sworn in once the House returns to session, denying any wrongdoing.

The situation escalated when Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes accused Johnson of “playing games,” asserting that the residents of Congressional District 7 deserve representation without unnecessary delays. Mayes warned that legal action could be pursued if the situation continues to drag on.

Grijalva has also challenged Johnson’s comments regarding her understanding of congressional procedures, describing them as “patronizing” and “misogynistic.” “If I were a Republican, I would have already been seated,” she remarked, highlighting the disparity she perceives in the treatment of members based on their party affiliation.

The backdrop to this conflict includes a broader partisan standoff, as the Senate has struggled to pass a GOP short-term spending bill, marking the tenth failed attempt. With no resolution in sight, the delay in Grijalva’s swearing-in exemplifies the tensions currently permeating Congress.

As the situation unfolds, Grijalva and her supporters remain adamant that the right to representation for Arizona’s residents is non-negotiable. The political dynamics at play reflect not only individual grievances but also the larger struggles that define the current legislative landscape.