Jeffries to Johnson: Swear in Representative-elect Grijalva at tomorrow's pro forma session
The Hon. Mike Johnson
Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives
H-232, The Capitol
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Speaker Johnson:
I write to demand that you swear in Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva at the pro forma session scheduled to take place on Friday, October 17.
Her election has been officially certified by the state of Arizona. In fact, it was never in question. Yet, for more than three weeks House Republicans have denied the people of Arizona’s 7th district their rightful representation in Congress. The continued refusal to seat Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva for partisan advantage undermines the integrity of this institution.
In April, Republican Representatives Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine were sworn in during a pro forma session less than 24 hours after their election. The decision to seat right-wing Republicans with record speed, while denying a newly elected Democrat the opportunity to serve is an unacceptable disgrace.
In these challenging times, where Republican policies have raised the already high cost of living and triggered a devastating healthcare crisis, the American people have had enough with partisan political gamesmanship. We need common sense leadership, and House Republicans can begin by ending your three week vacation, reopening the government and swearing in Representative-elect Adelita Grijalva immediately.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Hakeem Jeffries
Democratic Leader