CNN’s Kaitlan Collins left Rep. Jim Jordan squirming on air after probing the delay in swearing in Adelita Grijalva, the incoming Democratic lawmaker. Grijalva, elected in September, has faced a troubling political limbo with no word from House Speaker Mike Johnson, despite other recent swearing-ins. The controversy stems from her promised support for a discharge petition, which could trigger a vote on the release of Jeffrey Epstein’s sealed files.

Background: Political Tension Surrounds Grijalva’s Swearing-In

Rep. Adelita Grijalva, elected to Congress in September, remains stuck in limbo as her swearing-in has been delayed for weeks. The Arizona Democrat’s delay contrasts sharply with the swift swearing-ins of two Republicans under similar circumstances. Grijalva’s situation has raised suspicions, as she has pledged to sign a discharge petition to push for a vote on legislation demanding the release of Jeffrey Epstein’s files. The Epstein files have become a focal point for many Democrats who suspect cover-ups surrounding the financier’s controversial death.

Grijalva’s Critical Vote on Epstein Files

Grijalva’s vote is seen as pivotal in forcing a vote to release documents tied to Jeffrey Epstein’s death. Her signature on the discharge petition would provide the crucial 218th vote needed. Epstein, the convicted sex offender and financier, died in a New York jail in 2019. His mysterious death has sparked various conspiracy theories, with some claiming he was killed to protect influential individuals linked to his activities. Grijalva’s vote could make or break any action on this front.

House Speaker Denies Epstein Connection

House Speaker Mike Johnson has denied any connection between the delay in Grijalva’s swearing-in and her pledge to sign the discharge petition. When questioned about the matter by reporters, Johnson insisted the delay was due to procedural reasons, citing the “pro forma” nature of the current House session during the ongoing government shutdown. Despite widespread suspicions, Johnson maintained that there was no political motive behind the delay.

Jim Jordan’s Flustered Response on CNN

Rep. Jim Jordan, a prominent ally of Speaker Johnson, was pressed by CNN’s Kaitlan Collins about the delay and its potential link to Grijalva’s vote on the Epstein files. Jordan attempted to justify the delay by emphasizing the special nature of the swearing-in process, which traditionally occurs when Congress is in session. Collins pointed out that other recent swearing-ins occurred under similar conditions, causing Jordan to stammer and briefly lose composure.

The “Pro Forma” Session Argument

Jordan’s explanation centered on the fact that the current House session is “pro forma,” meaning there are few members present, and the full swearing-in ceremony is typically postponed until more members are available. He argued that such delays were not unusual, but was caught off guard when reminded of previous exceptions, including the swearing-ins of two Florida Republicans in similar situations. This exchange highlighted the inconsistency in how Grijalva’s case is being handled.

Johnson Insists on Procedural Delay

Speaker Johnson reiterated that Grijalva’s delay had nothing to do with the Epstein files. In a separate exchange with CNN’s Manu Raju, Johnson pushed back against the notion that Grijalva’s looming signature was influencing the delay. He insisted the delay was purely procedural due to the shutdown and that Grijalva would be sworn in once Congress returns to full session. However, Johnson also mentioned that scheduling the ceremony could depend on Grijalva’s timing.

Grijalva’s Political Legacy and Controversies

Grijalva’s election to Congress marked a personal and political milestone, as she succeeded her late father, a prominent figure in Arizona politics. Her delay is just one part of the broader political landscape, which includes the continued fallout from Epstein’s death and the Trump administration’s handling of related files. The controversy surrounding Epstein’s death and his connections to high-profile figures continues to fuel debates over transparency and accountability.