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WASHINGTON — Adelita Grijalva sworn in Congress on Wednesday, officially filling the Arizona seat once held by her late father. The Democrat won a special election over seven weeks ago.
House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., administered the oath shortly before the House returned to session. Grijalva delivered a floor speech and immediately signed a discharge petition to release Jeffrey Epstein files, giving the measure its 218th signature.
Her seating narrows the Republican majority to 220-214. Grijalva vowed to continue her father’s advocacy for environmental justice, labor rights, and tribal sovereignty.
“It is time for Congress to restore a full check and balance to this administration,” Grijalva said on the House floor.End to induction delay
Grijalva’s induction ends a weekslong delay critics said stalled her participation in the Epstein petition. Johnson had refused to seat her while the House was out of session. Arizona’s attorney general filed a lawsuit, calling the delay unjust.
After taking office, she joined Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., on the petition. Three Republicans—Lauren Boebert, Nancy Mace, and Marjorie Taylor Greene—also signed. Reports indicate President Donald Trump personally contacted Boebert and Mace regarding the petition.
Busy first day on Capitol Hill
Grijalva’s arrival coincides with lawmakers returning amid travel delays from the government shutdown. She will vote on the Senate-passed government funding bill, likely opposing it due to expiring ACA tax credits.
Massachusetts Rep. Jim McGovern expects the Epstein bill vote in early December. House rules mean the petition signature does not trigger an immediate vote. Recent committee emails may heighten interest in the issue, citing Trump’s past connections to Epstein.
Arizona’s first Latina congresswoman
Adelita Grijalva is the first Latina elected to Congress from Arizona. She served on Tucson Unified School District and Pima County boards before winning the special election easily in a majority-Democrat district. She told reporters, “I would rather have my dad than an office.” Environmental justice, tribal sovereignty, and public education are among her top priorities.
Grijalva’s tenure promises to uphold her father’s progressive vision while taking an active role in national oversight and legislative action.
For more updates and analysis, visit PhoenixQ ’s Political News section.
