Executive Summary
The Story So Far
Why This Matters
Who Thinks What?
Rep. Adelita Grijalva was sworn into the U.S. House of Representatives on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, ending a 50-day delay that had sparked tensions between Democrats and House Speaker Mike Johnson. Immediately following her swearing-in, Grijalva became the crucial 218th signatory on a discharge petition aimed at forcing a floor vote on the release of all Jeffrey Epstein case files, an issue that has divided members of Congress.
Swearing-In and Legislative Impact
Grijalva, a Democrat representing Arizona’s 7th Congressional District, took the oath of office after the House reconvened to vote on a Senate-passed bill to reopen the government. The delay in her seating had been a point of contention, with Speaker Johnson previously stating he would not swear her in until the House returned to legislative session amidst a government shutdown.
Democrats had voiced outrage over the prolonged wait, arguing that Johnson’s decision was politically motivated. They pointed to other instances where the Speaker had moved swiftly to swear in newly elected Republican members. Grijalva herself described the delay as an “abuse of power,” asserting that one individual should not unilaterally obstruct the swearing-in of a duly elected member for political reasons.
Impact on Constituents
During the 50-day period, Grijalva was unable to perform basic constituent services or establish a functional office in her district. She reported lacking a working office phone, a budget, or access to government systems, effectively leaving residents of her sprawling district without a vote in Congress.
The situation escalated to a lawsuit filed by Arizona’s attorney general against the House of Representatives over the delay, a move Speaker Johnson dismissed as “patently absurd.” Arizona’s Democratic senators also confronted Johnson on the issue, and other Democrats staged protests outside the Speaker’s office.
The Epstein Files Petition
Grijalva’s first act after being sworn in was to sign the discharge petition for the Jeffrey Epstein case files. Her signature propelled the effort forward, securing the necessary votes to potentially bring the matter to a floor vote. Epstein survivors were present in the gallery to witness her swearing-in and subsequent action.
Grijalva emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating, “Justice cannot wait another day.” Hours before her signature advanced the petition, top Trump administration officials reportedly met with at least one Republican who had also signed onto the petition.
Speaker Johnson’s Defense
Speaker Johnson defended the delay, asserting that Grijalva won her special election on September 23 when the House was out of session. He maintained that he had vowed to swear her in as soon as the House returned, adhering to House custom. Johnson expressed admiration for Grijalva, describing her as “an excellent member of Congress” and a “great person.”
He added that Grijalva “hasn’t missed a vote” because the oath was administered before legislative business began. Johnson also paid tribute to Grijalva’s late father, Rep. Raul Grijalva, who previously held the seat for over two decades, acknowledging his significant legacy in Congress.
A New Chapter
Rep. Adelita Grijalva’s delayed swearing-in concludes a period of political maneuvering and frustration, particularly for her constituents. Her immediate action on the Epstein files petition highlights the legislative priorities she brings to Congress, marking a significant moment for the House and the ongoing efforts to release the sensitive documents.
