Speaker Mike Johnson is facing backlash for reversing his commitment to swear in newly elected House Democrat Adelita Grijalva, now conditioning her oath-taking on an end to the government shutdown. This abrupt shift has drawn sharp criticism from Democrats who accuse the speaker of undermining democratic norms for political leverage.
Earlier on Tuesday, Johnson assured CNN that he would schedule Grijalva’s swearing-in “as soon as she wants,” emphasizing it was a ceremonial duty unrelated to other issues. However, hours later, a leadership aide stated that Grijalva would only be sworn in when the House returns to full session after Democrats agree to reopen the government. This contradiction highlights the escalating tensions in a divided Congress grappling with a prolonged shutdown.
The delay is particularly notable because Johnson has previously sworn in Republican members during pro forma sessions, which are brief, non-legislative meetings held while the government is shut down. For instance, he administered the oath to Florida GOP Reps. Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine in similar circumstances earlier this year. The inconsistency has fueled allegations of partisan maneuvering and selective application of House rules.
Grijalva, who secured a special election victory in Arizona’s 3rd Congressional District just two weeks ago, has been vocal in demanding a swift swearing-in. In a letter to Johnson on Monday, she argued that the postponement “is robbing the people of Southern Arizona of essential constituent services,” as she cannot fully represent them without being seated. Her election filled a vacancy left by her father, Rep. Raúl Grijalva, who retired after a long career.
Democrats have pointed to Grijalva’s potential role in a petition to force a House vote on releasing additional materials from the Jeffrey Epstein case as a possible motive for the delay. She is expected to provide the crucial final signature needed to advance the measure, which has been a point of contention. Johnson has firmly denied any connection, stating, “It has nothing to do with that at all,” but the timing has raised suspicions among lawmakers and observers.
Rep. Jim McGovern, the top Democrat on the House Rules Committee, lambasted the move as “outrageous” and accused Johnson of “undermining our democracy.” He directly linked the delay to what he called “a continuation of the Epstein cover-up,” reflecting the deep partisan divisions over the handling of sensitive investigations and transparency issues.
The standoff occurs against the backdrop of a government shutdown that has stalled legislative activity, with the House conducting only pro forma sessions. Johnson has defended the practice, noting that the chamber is in pro forma because “there is nothing for the House to do” after passing funding bills, but the Senate has yet to act. This impasse has paralyzed normal operations and now entangled the seating of a new member, exacerbating the political gridlock.
Looking ahead, the resolution may hinge on whether Democrats can muster enough pressure to compel Johnson to set a date or if the shutdown persists, further delaying Grijalva’s induction. The episode underscores the broader political strife in Washington, where procedural tactics are increasingly used as leverage in policy disputes, potentially setting a precedent for future confrontations over member seating and government functionality.
