Arizona Congressional Representation Challenge
State of Arizona and Grijalva v. United States House of Representatives
A pro-democracy lawsuit seeking to compel the U.S. House of Representatives to seat Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva (D).
Background
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes and Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva filed a lawsuit against the U.S. House of Representatives, the House Clerk and the Sergeant at Arms. The lawsuit argues that Speaker Mike Johnson’s refusal to administer the oath of office violates the Constitution and deprives Arizona’s 7th Congressional District of representation.
Grijalva won a Sept. 23 special election with nearly 69% of the vote. The results were certified on Oct. 14, but Johnson has declined to seat her, citing the House’s “regular session” schedule. The plaintiffs allege the delay is purely partisan and intended to block Grijalva from signing a discharge petition that could force a vote Republicans oppose.
Why It Matters
By refusing to seat a duly elected member, Speaker Johnson and by extension the U.S. House is effectively silencing a district of more than 700,000 Arizonans. The lawsuit underscores the danger of allowing congressional leaders to manipulate or delay the seating process for political advantage — a tactic that, if left unchecked, could deny representation to any community based on partisan calculations.
Latest Updates
Oct. 21, 2025: Plaintiffs filed their complaint.