By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Elected six weeks ago, the Arizona representative-elect has been denied being sworn in by Speaker Mike Johnson, setting a modern-day record for the longest wait. During this time, the House has been in recess while crucial economic and social issues remain unaddressed, potentially affecting millions of Americans. The hold-up appears to stem from the representative-elect’s potential decisive vote on releasing the Epstein files. This unprecedented move, denying over 800,000 Arizonans representation, has led to a lawsuit and calls for the House to return to session immediately to fulfill its duties.
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I was elected six weeks ago. Speaker Mike Johnson refuses to swear me in. The frustrating reality of this situation really boils down to the fact that I’ve been elected to represent my constituents, and yet I’m being denied the ability to fully perform my duties. Six weeks is a significant chunk of time, representing over 5% of my elected term already lost to this obstruction. It’s a blatant disregard for the democratic process, for the will of the voters who elected me to serve. It’s not just about me; it’s about the people I represent who are being effectively disenfranchised.
This isn’t just a matter of protocol; it feels like a deliberate act of political gamesmanship. There’s a palpable sense that the Speaker is intentionally delaying the inevitable, perhaps for political leverage or to avoid dealing with specific issues or votes. I can’t help but wonder if this would be happening if I were a Republican. It seems like the usual rules of order and decorum are being disregarded. The standard “glorious tradition befitting the position” that was once a priority seems to have vanished. It’s a situation where one person, Speaker Johnson, is able to hold up the normal functioning of our government.
The reason for this delay is clearly a mystery to the public. The lack of a clear, transparent explanation adds to the suspicion and frustration. It’s hard not to interpret the silence as an attempt to protect someone, or something, or at the very least, as an attempt to gain a political advantage. The situation really has drawn attention to what the potential consequences may be. What is to stop a future Democratic Speaker from doing the exact same thing to a Republican representative? The precedent being set is dangerous, and it highlights how fragile some of the norms of our government can be.
If I were to take matters into my own hands, I would show up daily, show up at press conferences, make my presence known in the most forceful and passionate manner possible. I would be outside the Speaker’s office every single day, making sure my voice and my constituents’ voices are heard. Some might call that “obnoxious,” but when you’re fighting for your right to serve and for the rights of the people you represent, sometimes you have to be persistent.
I can’t help but feel as if I’m being punished for a position I may take, or a vote that I would cast. There’s a theory circulating that this delay is directly linked to an upcoming special election, and that my vote could potentially affect certain issues that others would rather not see discussed. If that’s true, it’s a deeply disturbing indication of how far some are willing to go to protect their political interests. It seems that certain people will go to great lengths to prevent a vote from being cast, or a decision from being made. The speculation about the motivations is almost as troubling as the delay itself.
In a situation like this, one might consider legal action. Perhaps a lawsuit, challenging the Speaker’s refusal to swear me in, is the only way to force the issue. If my ability to serve is being obstructed, then the courts may be the only avenue to get justice. I would urge my constituents to demand the situation to be brought into the forefront of discussion, and ensure that their voices are heard as well.
This is a complete breakdown of what is expected in the US government. It’s truly shocking that such a simple act as swearing in a duly elected official can be blocked indefinitely. It’s like the system has failed, and one man can now control the representation of his constituents. Something must be done.
The question of whether or not I could start work without being sworn in is a valid one. I mean, I was elected to serve, and I am ready to do so. If I could, I would. If I could introduce legislation, and if I could vote, I would do so. If I were the Speaker, I would make it a priority to see that any elected official is sworn in immediately.
I feel that what is happening is truly a disgrace to our government. It seems as if there are no rules. This blatant display of power, and this disregard for the democratic process, is damaging to the reputation of our nation. It is a precedent that should never be set. It seems like democracy is dying.