PHOENIX, Arizona — A judge has ruled that Maricopa County officials overstepped their authority in a dispute over election control, restoring key responsibilities to the county recorder ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Scott Blaney found that the county Board of Supervisors acted unlawfully by taking control of election-related personnel, systems, and duties from Recorder Justin Heap. The ruling returns oversight of in-person early voting and other functions to the recorder’s office.
The legal battle began after Heap sued the board, arguing it improperly shifted funding, IT staff, and responsibilities such as ballot drop box management away from his office. The board had defended its actions as necessary to support election operations.
Blaney clarified that Arizona law divides responsibilities between the recorder and the board, rejecting the board’s claim of broad authority over election administration.
County officials said they are considering an appeal, while Heap called the decision a victory for election law and voters.
The ruling could influence how elections are managed in Maricopa County, a major battleground that has faced intense scrutiny and controversy since the 2020 presidential election.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
