MAGA Mike Johnson Served With Lawsuit as He Leaves House Floor — Arizona Congresswoman-Elect Takes Legal Action
In a dramatic turn on Capitol Hill, House Speaker Mike Johnson was served with a federal lawsuit as he left the House floor, marking a deepening standoff over the swearing-in of Arizona Congresswoman-elect Adelita Grijalva. The lawsuit, filed by Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes on behalf of Grijalva and the State of Arizona, accuses Johnson and the House of Representatives of unlawfully denying representation to more than 800,000 Arizonans.
The Lawsuit: Taxation Without Representation
The suit alleges that Speaker Johnson and MAGA Republicans have refused to swear in Grijalva, who was elected to represent Arizona’s 7th Congressional District nearly a month ago. According to Attorney General Mayes, this refusal amounts to “taxation without representation,” a violation of both constitutional principles and the democratic process. The lawsuit also names the House Sergeant-at-Arms, who has been ordered by Johnson to prevent Grijalva’s swearing-in.
“This is taxation without representation,” said Mayes. “We sued the House of Representatives today because Speaker Johnson’s obstruction goes far beyond petty partisan politics. It’s an unlawful breach of our constitution and the democratic process.”
Political Motives and the Epstein Files
Central to the controversy is the 218th signature needed for a discharge petition that could lead to the release of the Epstein files. Grijalva’s swearing-in would provide that crucial vote, which some believe is the real reason behind the delay. Despite warnings, Johnson has kept the House out of regular session, effectively blocking Grijalva’s entry.
“If the Speaker were granted this authority, he could deny representation for a significant portion of the two-year term provided by the Constitution,” the lawsuit argues. “Fortunately, the Constitution does not give that authority to the Speaker or anyone else.”
Impact on Arizona’s 7th District
Grijalva’s absence from Congress has left her constituents without vital services. She explained at a press conference that she cannot access constituent services, open a district office, or even receive a congressional email address. “812,000 Arizonans do not have representation in Congress,” she said. “Since my election, I have not been able to serve my district. My office has no budget, and I am unable to open a lease or provide services.”
Attorney General Mayes: Urgency and Precedent
Attorney General Mayes emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that the lawsuit seeks a declaratory judgment in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. “We want this resolved quickly. We have a member of Congress who should already be sworn in, but who cannot help constituents with flooding, veterans’ benefits, or social security. This is outrageous and sets a dangerous precedent.”
Mayes also rebutted attempts to compare Johnson’s actions to previous delays under Speaker Pelosi, clarifying that those were collaborative, not obstructive. “Speaker Johnson is lying to the people of America. He swore in two Republican members in similar circumstances without delay. He could swear in Grijalva right now if he wanted to.”
A Non-Partisan Issue
Mayes stressed that the lawsuit is not about party politics, but about fundamental rights. “Whether you’re Republican, Democrat, or independent, this should be non-controversial. People in Arizona are being actively harmed by Mike Johnson playing politics.”
Next Steps
The case now moves to federal court, where Mayes and Grijalva hope for a swift resolution. If the court rules in their favor, a judge or notary could swear in Grijalva, restoring representation to Arizona’s 7th District.
Conclusion
The refusal to swear in Congresswoman-elect Adelita Grijalva has triggered a legal and constitutional showdown in Washington. As the lawsuit unfolds, the outcome will have lasting implications for congressional procedure, representation, and the balance of power in the House.
