Adelita Grijalva Joins Congress Amid Legislative Delays
Adelita Grijalva, a Democrat from Arizona, officially took her place in Congress on Wednesday, following a victory in a special election held over seven weeks ago. Grijalva steps into the House seat formerly occupied by her late father, Raúl Grijalva, bringing the current Republican majority to a narrow 219-214 margin.
Sworn in by House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., Grijalva immediately signed a discharge petition to initiate a vote on releasing documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, achieving the necessary 218 signatures. Her induction signifies an end to the delay that some Democrats suggested was a tactic to prevent her from supporting the petition.
Grijalva expressed her commitment to continuing her father’s legacy, focusing on progressive initiatives such as environmentalism, labor rights, and tribal sovereignty. In her inaugural floor speech, she called for Congress to re-establish a robust system of checks and balances, stating, “We can and must do better. What is most concerning is not what this administration has done, but what the majority of this body has failed to do.”
Challenges Surrounding Grijalva’s Induction
The process of seating Grijalva encountered obstacles, including a lawsuit from Arizona’s attorney general, after Johnson declined to swear her in while the House was out of session. Grijalva and other Democrats speculated that this decision was an effort to delay the Epstein petition’s progress. The petition, initiated by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., received bipartisan support, with Republicans Lauren Boebert, Nancy Mace, and Marjorie Taylor Greene adding their signatures.
President Donald Trump reportedly engaged with Boebert and Mace regarding the Epstein petition, according to sources familiar with the discussions. Grijalva’s participation provides the final signature required for a vote, though procedural rules mean the vote will not occur immediately.
A Historic Moment for Arizona
Grijalva’s entry into Congress marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first Latina to represent Arizona in the House. Her election follows a tenure on the Tucson Unified School District board and leadership on the Pima County Board of Supervisors. Winning the special election with ease, she continues to represent a predominantly Hispanic district with a strong Democratic registration advantage.
In her role, Grijalva aims to focus on environmental justice, tribal sovereignty, and public education, aligning with the priorities championed by her father. She remarked on the emotional weight of her victory, stating, “I would rather have my dad than have an office.”
This transition occurs amid a busy session as Congress reconvenes to address government funding issues. Grijalva and many Democrats plan to oppose the Senate-passed bill to reopen the government, which lacks provisions to extend Affordable Care Act tax credits.
Grijalva’s journey exemplifies a continuation of her family’s dedication to public service, as she seeks to uphold high expectations and advocate for progressive change in Washington.
