1. United States
2. N.C.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my deep concern over the unprecedented delay in swearing in Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva, who won the special election for Arizona's 7th Congressional District on September 23, 2023. This delay is not only a departure from standard practice but also a disservice to the constituents of her district who are currently without representation in Congress. Rep.-elect Grijalva rightfully won her seat in a democratic election, yet she has been prevented from taking her oath of office due to the House not being in session since September 19. This situation is unacceptable and potentially unconstitutional. Arizona's Attorney General Kris Mayes has filed a lawsuit against the U.S. House of Representatives over this matter, underscoring the gravity of the issue. The consequences of this delay are significant. Constituents of Arizona's 7th District are being denied critical services and excluded from important debates. This is a clear violation of their right to representation in our federal government. Furthermore, the delay is preventing Rep.-elect Grijalva from participating in crucial votes, including one related to the release of files connected to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Speaker Mike Johnson's characterization of the lawsuit as 'patently absurd' and his claim of following precedent are not convincing arguments for denying representation to American citizens. The House has the ability to swear in new members during pro forma sessions, a practice that has been attempted by Democrats but blocked without justification. I urge you to take immediate action to ensure that Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva is sworn in without further delay. This is not a partisan issue; it is a matter of upholding our democratic principles and ensuring that every American has a voice in Congress. The integrity of our representative democracy depends on swift resolution of this matter. Please use your influence to press for an immediate swearing-in ceremony for Rep.-elect Grijalva, either during a pro forma session or by reconvening the House for this specific purpose. The constituents of Arizona's 7th District deserve nothing less than full and immediate representation in Congress.