URGENT UPDATE: Tensions escalate in Congress as Republican leaders face scrutiny over the delay in swearing in Adelita Grijalva, the newly elected Democratic representative from Arizona. This delay could impact a crucial vote that may lead to the release of files linked to the controversial figure Jeffrey Epstein.
In a heated exchange on CNN’s “The Source,” host Kaitlan Collins pressed Jim Jordan about the ongoing political limbo surrounding Grijalva, who was elected in September but remains un-sworn just as the House grapples with urgent legislative issues. Grijalva has expressed frustration, stating she has received “absolutely nothing” from House Speaker Mike Johnson regarding her official start date.
Democrats allege that the delay is a strategic move by Johnson to stall Grijalva’s vote, which could become the 218th signature needed for a discharge petition aimed at compelling the Justice Department to release Epstein-related documents. Such documents may shed light on Epstein’s connections and the circumstances surrounding his death in August 2019 while awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges.
During the CNN interview, Jordan attempted to frame the delay as a procedural issue linked to the ongoing government shutdown. “Because they’re not in session,” he stated, emphasizing that new members typically are sworn in when the House is fully assembled. However, Collins countered by highlighting that other members had been sworn in during similar circumstances without delay.
Jordan appeared taken aback when confronted with evidence of previous swearing-in sessions conducted during pro forma sessions. “I didn’t, I actually didn’t even know that when they were sworn in,” he remarked, deflecting the discussion back to traditional practices.
When asked directly if the delay was connected to Grijalva’s potential role in the discharge petition, Jordan denied any correlation. “No, I think it’s to make the clear point we have voted to fund the government at all levels,” he asserted.
Meanwhile, Speaker Johnson defended the timing, insisting the delay had “nothing to do” with potential votes on Epstein files, stating, “We will swear her in when everybody gets back.” He assured that scheduling would be arranged “as soon as she wants.”
Grijalva is set to succeed her late father, who passed away in March, and her presence in Congress is crucial for Democratic efforts to address pressing issues. The White House has been under scrutiny as reports surfaced indicating that former President Donald Trump was informed about Epstein’s files in May. Although Trump and Epstein were once acquaintances, they reportedly fell out in 2004.
This developing situation raises questions about transparency and accountability in Congress. As the political landscape shifts, the potential impact of Grijalva’s vote looms large. The urgency for clarity on the Epstein files has never been greater, with many calling for immediate action.
Stay tuned for further updates on this unfolding story, as the fate of Grijalva’s swearing-in and its implications for the Epstein files remain in limbo. This is a critical moment that could reshape discussions around accountability in Washington and the ongoing fallout from Epstein’s controversial legacy.
