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The Arizona Supreme Court ruling provides important legal clarity regarding the respective responsibilities of the Maricopa County Recorder and the Board of Supervisors.
From the beginning, I believed this dispute should have been resolved through conversation, collaboration, and, when necessary, mediation rather than prolonged litigation, which is why I broke from the Board and advocated for the return of the Recorder's duties prior to 2025.
I have always believed our employees, taxpayers, and the voters of Maricopa County are better served when elected officials work together to solve problems.
The Arizona Supreme Court has now spoken, and I fully respect its decision. We will follow the Court’s guidance and continue working to ensure a smooth, secure, and transparent election process.
My focus has never been on which elected official has more authority. It has always been on ensuring our election professionals have clear direction, our voters have confidence in the process, and our county government delivers secure, transparent, and efficient elections.
Now is the time to move forward. I look forward to working collaboratively with Recorder Heap, my fellow Board members, and our dedicated election staff to implement the Court’s guidance professionally and without unnecessary conflict.
While today’s decision provides important direction, I also hope it serves as an opportunity to continue improving Arizona’s election laws so future Boards and Recorders have even greater clarity and can avoid lengthy legal disputes.
The people of Maricopa County expect their elected leaders to respect the rule of law, work together, and put public service ahead of disagreements. That remains my commitment, and I hope today’s decision allows all of us to turn our full attention back to serving the voters.
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Contact:
Kristy Dohnel
kristy.dohnel@maricopa.gov
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