Mike Johnson Conditions Adelita Grijalva Swearing Amid Government Shutdown

House Speaker Mike Johnson has been delaying the swearing-in of Congresswoman Adelita Grijalva during the ongoing government shutdown, which some suggest is a strategic move since her vote could release sensitive Epstein files. Johnson has refused to negotiate with Democrats, prolonging the shutdown and blocking a face-to-face debate with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, who attributes this stalemate to former President Donald Trump's control over Republican actions. Meanwhile, the Democratic Party faces internal criticism and declining support, with some voices blaming leadership's cautious approach and others pointing to demographic shifts and a shrinking voter base that favor Republicans. The party's struggle is characterized by conflicting strategies between moderate and progressive factions, contributing to a narrative of collapse and loss of political dominance. In the broader political context, former President Barack Obama praised recent Middle East peace efforts but was criticized for not acknowledging President Donald Trump's leadership, reflecting ongoing partisan divisions. CNN commentator Scott Jennings highlighted Trump's success in implementing his agenda and suggested Democrats remain unsettled by their electoral losses and Trump's global standing.