After an extended wait of 50 days, Rep. Adelita Grijalva has officially been sworn into Congress. This event follows a turbulent period characterized by legal challenges and increased tensions within the Capitol regarding her seating. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson had previously delayed her swearing-in due to a government shutdown, a decision that sparked significant outcry from Democratic members.
Swearing-In Ceremony Amid Controversy
The swearing-in took place after the House reconvened to vote on a Senate-passed bill aimed at reopening the government. During the interim, Grijalva was unable to provide essential services for her constituents. She lacked a functioning office, a budget, and access to government systems, which left her unable to represent her southern Arizona district effectively.
“I’m basically a tourist with an office,” Grijalva remarked, highlighting the challenges faced during her time without official status in Congress.
The 218th Vote: A Pivotal Role
Grijalva’s timing in joining Congress is particularly significant. She is expected to be the crucial 218th member to support a push for a House vote to release all documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein case. This issue has generated considerable division among Republican members.
- Grijalva’s swearing-in has been viewed as a key moment, potentially shifting the balance of support in the House.
- Democrats have suggested that Johnson’s delay was intentional, aimed at preventing her crucial vote.
Response to Delays and Legal Challenges
Johnson defended his actions, stating that Grijalva won her election on September 23 while the House was out of session. He promised to administer the oath as soon as legislative activities resumed. However, increased pressure from Democrats, including Arizona’s senators, raised concerns over the fairness of the delay.
Amid the turmoil, Arizona’s Attorney General even filed a lawsuit against the House, a move Johnson dismissed as “patently absurd.”
A Legacy Continued
Grijalva fills the seat previously held by her father, the late Raul Grijalva, a long-serving Democratic representative who passed away in March after battling cancer. She carried on her family’s legacy by winning the Democratic primary and securing approximately 70% of the vote against her Republican opponent, Daniel Butierez.
Reflecting on her experience, Grijalva expressed frustration, stating, “It’s been a really long wait. Incredibly frustrating.” She emphasized the difficulties of not being able to assist the constituents during the historic government shutdown.
With her swearing-in now complete, Grijalva is ready to fully engage with her colleagues in Congress and serve the needs of her district effectively.
