Johnson to Swear in Adelita Grijalva After 7-Week Delay

House Speaker Mike Johnson is set to swear in Adelita Grijalva after a delay of seven weeks. This development follows an agreement among Senate Democrats on a spending bill that will help avert a government shutdown.

Key Details Surrounding Grijalva’s Swearing In

Adelita Grijalva was elected during a special election in September. She will represent Arizona’s 7th Congressional District. Speaker Johnson indicated that administering the oath is his “first order of business” once legislative matters are settled.

Background of the Delay

Johnson had previously postponed Grijalva’s swearing-in, stating she would be seated after the government reopened. Her supporters, including House Democrats, have criticized this decision as arbitrary and unnecessary.

• Grijalva was elected in September.
• The delay lasted for seven weeks.
• Over 813,000 Arizonans were temporarily without representation.

Legal Actions and Public Response

In October, Grijalva and Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes filed a lawsuit against the U.S. House. They argued that the prolonged delay denied Arizona residents their right to full congressional representation.

Grijalva expressed her frustration, stating, “This delay should have never happened. For seven weeks, Arizonans have been denied a voice.”

Upcoming Legislative Actions

During a private conference call, Johnson mentioned that the House is expected to vote on the spending bill on Wednesday. Despite her eagerness to begin her congressional duties, Grijalva voiced disappointment regarding her first vote.

She emphasized that the bill does not adequately protect working people from rising premiums or ensure health coverage, criticizing the lack of significant measures to address pressing issues.

Final Steps in Congress

With Grijalva’s official induction into Congress, she will also be the last signature needed on a petition for the House to vote on releasing files related to Jeffrey Epstein. This has raised speculation about the reasons behind Johnson’s delay in swearing her in.