House Speaker Mike Johnson Delays Swearing-In of Epstein Petition's Final Signer Amid Release Vote Dispute

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) is accused by Democrats of delaying the swearing-in of Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, who would provide the pivotal 218th signature on a discharge petition to force a vote on releasing Jeffrey Epstein's investigatory files. The delay is attributed to Johnson canceling scheduled House votes amid a government shutdown standoff, using it as leverage against Senate Democrats. Grijalva's swearing-in is contingent on receiving official election paperwork, though Republicans previously expedited similar processes for other members, raising allegations of political maneuvering. Democrats, including Rep. Katherine Clark and Grijalva herself, argue the delay is a tactic to avoid the Epstein files vote, while Johnson's office maintains adherence to standard procedures. The House's scheduled return to session and Grijalva's potential swearing-in remain uncertain, impacting critical votes and representation for her Arizona constituents. The dispute highlights heightened partisan tensions over government funding and transparency on sensitive investigations.