Representative Grijalva Sworn In, Moves to Release Epstein Documents

On Wednesday, Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.) officially took her oath of office, positioning herself to support a vote regarding the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein within the House.

With her swearing-in complete, Grijalva becomes the 218th signatory needed to initiate a discharge petition. This petition aims to compel the Department of Justice (DOJ) to disclose documents concerning Epstein. If successful, the bill will proceed to a vote despite potential resistance from Congressional leadership.

Grijalva, who now holds the seat formerly occupied by her late father, Raul Grijalva, expressed her intention to sign the release petition as her inaugural act as a legislator. She stated, “It is past time for Congress to restore its role as checks and balances on the government and fight for our American people.”

Jeffrey Epstein, a once-prominent financier, died in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex trafficking charges involving minors. His expansive social network included influential individuals like former Presidents Bill Clinton and Donald Trump, as well as Prince Andrew. The circumstances surrounding his death, ruled a suicide, have raised questions about whether he exploited his connections for illicit purposes.

Earlier this year, lawmakers led by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) sought to prompt a congressional vote aimed at forcing the release of documents on Epstein, particularly after a troubling update from the Justice Department regarding stalled investigations.

Despite requests, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) indicated that the DOJ had already addressed Congress’s inquiries. However, Massie and three other Republicans—as well as all House Democrats—signed the petition, which was just short of the required number of signatures to advance.

During Grijalva’s swearing-in, two alleged Epstein victims attended the event. Grijalva highlighted the importance of giving a voice to those affected by violence and exploitation, such as Liz Stein and Jessica Michaels, who have publicly shared their experiences of abuse.

Speaker Johnson expressed conditional support for the bill, noting it could potentially lack adequate protections for Epstein’s possible victims. With Grijalva’s backing, Democratic leaders are optimistic that the petition could be taken up in early December.

Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass.) suggested that Johnson may attempt to hinder the process, stating, “It should ripen in early December. That doesn’t mean the Speaker won’t try some shenanigans. If everything goes as planned, we’re looking at early December.”