CNN Anchor Leaves GOP Rep Momentarily Dumbfounded After Exposing Hole In His Story

A recent CNN interview between journalist Kaitlin Collins and Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) took an awkward turn when she challenged his explanation for why Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.) has not been sworn into Congress. On Sept. 29, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) was accused by Democrats for delaying Grijalva’s swearing-in to stall a vote on the Epstein Files. When Collins pressed Jordan on the issue, the Ohio Republican attributed the delay to the current government shutdown. “Is it clear to you why Speaker Johnson has not sworn in the new member Adelita Grijalva yet?” Collins asked. Journalist Kaitlin Collins challenges Rep. Jim Jordan's explanation for why Rep.-elect Adelita Grijalva has not been sworn into Congress yet. CNNJordan responded, “Because we’re not in session.”He went on to say: “It’s typically done when we’re all there. It’s a special thing. ... The new member gives a speech in front of Congress, sworn in by the Speaker of the House, introduced by colleagues from their delegation.”Jordan referenced his experience in office, saying this has been the norm during his 19 years in government.He reiterated that the House is currently in a pro forma session, which he claimed is the reason Grijalva hasn’t been sworn in. That’s when Collins fact-checked him.“But a couple months ago, he swore in Jimmy Patronis and Randy Fine in a pro forma session,” Collins stated.Jordan looks on during a hearing with the House Judiciary Committee on Sept. 3 in Washington, D.C.Kevin Dietsch via Getty Images“I actually didn’t even know that when they were sworn in. But I always remember when it happens, the delegations up front and that person is sworn in,” Jordan said, stumbling through his statement. The journalist then drew a connection to the Epstein files, which Jordan quickly dismissed, stating, “No, I think it’s to make the clear point we have voted to fund the government at levels all the Democrats supported, and they now won’t support it because they’re bringing up an issue that, frankly, was not even part of the campaign last year.”Close