[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 11, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E130]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      HONORING AMY EMERICK CLERKIN

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. ADELITA S. GRIJALVA

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 11, 2026

  Mrs. GRIJALVA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Amy Emerick Clerkin 
who has served as a dedicated staffer in the House of Representatives 
for 20 years.
  I have known Amy for many years. She worked for my father, the late 
Congressman Raul M. Grijalva, for two decades, including 16 years as 
his chief of staff. Throughout this time, she served as a trusted 
leader with the heart of a true public servant.
  She has navigated the late-night votes, the procedural labyrinths, 
and the political systems that change in a moment's notice. And she has 
done it with a steady purpose that never makes the headlines but keeps 
the whole thing standing. She fought for wins both big and small, 
weathered the chaos, and held on to her sense of mission. Politics can 
be chaotic, but she is a calm, steady, and thoughtful leader.
  In addition to leading my father's congressional office, Amy served 
as an advisor to the Congressional Progressive Caucus, where she 
spearheaded efforts to raise the Caucus's national profile, and build 
its power and influence within Congress.
  Amy connected with people across roles, perspectives, and ideologies 
to make Congress a better institution. She approaches everyone with 
respect and a genuine interest in finding common ground. Colleagues and 
stakeholders readily engage with her because they trust her judgment 
and integrity. She has thoughtfully guided other congressional staff as 
they navigate the contours of policymaking.
  Throughout her time on Capitol Hill, Amy dedicated herself to an 
office and the policies that seek to provide opportunities, resources 
and basic equity to communities in need. She never took the easy road 
or wavered in this dedication.
  Amy's capabilities helped my father achieve a lasting impact for 
Arizona. We are thankful for her service to this great institution and 
for her 20 years of service to the people of Arizona.

                          ____________________