Politics
Gallego Criticizes Johnson for Delaying Grijalva’s Swearing-In

Representative Ruben Gallego has publicly criticized Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy for delaying the swearing-in of newly elected Representative Adelita Grijalva. This decision comes amid a contentious political landscape, with Gallego alleging that McCarthy’s actions are an attempt to obstruct a bipartisan petition concerning the release of documents related to the late Jeffrey Epstein.
Grijalva, who won her election on September 23, 2025, with nearly 70% of the vote, has yet to be sworn in. McCarthy has attributed the delay to the ongoing government shutdown, which has halted full legislative sessions in the House. Currently, the House is in recess as the Senate deliberates on short-term funding resolutions. Traditionally, the swearing-in of members-elect occurs when the full House is present, but McCarthy did make exceptions earlier this year for two Florida Republicans during a brief pro forma session.
Gallego expressed concern that McCarthy’s reluctance to swear in Grijalva is strategically linked to a bipartisan discharge petition that aims to force a vote on the release of Epstein-related documents. The petition requires a minimum of 218 signatures to proceed. He stated, “He is doing this because he wants to cover up for the president and the pedophiles on Epstein’s list… That’s the only reason why.”
Following her victory, Grijalva’s swearing-in was expected to be a formality. Arizona officials, including Attorney General Kris Mayes, have urged McCarthy to expedite the process. Mayes emphasized the importance of representation for Arizona residents, stating, “Ms. Grijalva and the State expected that you would follow your usual practice and swear her into office at the earliest opportunity.”
In a confrontation on Capitol Hill, Gallego and Senator Mark Kelly approached McCarthy regarding Grijalva’s situation. McCarthy dismissed their claims, labeling the allegation as “totally absurd” and asserting that the encounter was nothing more than a “publicity stunt.”
The tension surrounding Grijalva’s swearing-in has escalated, with Arizona state officials warning of potential legal action if McCarthy fails to act. Attorney General Mayes noted that the continuous shifting of explanations regarding Grijalva’s delay has been unsatisfactory, asserting that “Arizona’s right to a full delegation and the right of the residents to representation… may not be delayed or used as leverage in negotiations about unrelated legislation.”
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries also weighed in, urging that Grijalva should have been sworn in by now. “It should have happened this week, should have happened last week. It needs to happen next week,” he stated, underscoring the urgency of the matter.
This situation is reminiscent of the lengthy delay experienced by former Representative Julia Letlow, who waited 25 days to be sworn in following her special election victory in 2021. As of now, it has been 21 days since Grijalva won her election, and the pressure is mounting for McCarthy to fulfill his duty and officially seat her in Congress.
The political stakes are high as the House grapples with pressing legislative priorities. The outcome of this delay extends beyond party lines, highlighting the ongoing tensions in Congress and raising questions about representation and accountability. Grijalva’s supporters and state officials continue to advocate for her immediate swearing-in, emphasizing the importance of her role in the House and the will of the voters who elected her.
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