Supes Silence Calculator Cavanaugh’s Math Miscalculations

In a crucial meeting on October 9, 2024, the Pinal County Board of Supervisors conducted a special session following a third-party investigation into allegations made by Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh regarding the 2024 primary elections. The findings, presented by the Phoenix-based Snell & Wilmer law firm, revealed “absolutely no evidence” supporting claims of election rigging.

The investigation specifically contested Cavanaugh’s assertions included in his self-published audit, which alleged manipulation of data and the existence of an anonymous whistleblower. Partner Brett Johnson from the law firm stated there were “multiple errors” in Cavanaugh’s report, citing incorrect mathematical calculations and incomplete data as key issues.

Cavanaugh’s absence from the meeting was notable, attributed to ongoing litigation against the county. He previously criticized the investigation for proceeding without his input, asserting that a thorough inquiry could not occur without the involvement of the originator of the claims.

Following revelations from Cavanaugh’s audit in August, the board initiated a comprehensive review of the methods he employed. Vice Chair Jeff McClure advocated for an examination of the methodologies used in Cavanaugh’s conclusions, further requesting a forensic audit of the technologies used during the primary elections.

With the results now widely acknowledged, local residents and political figures are expressing their views. Lisa Sanor, chair of the Pinal County Democratic Party, labeled the situation as a “giant distraction” and criticized Cavanaugh for undermining public trust in the electoral process. “He is doing a severe disservice to his constituents and to every voter, regardless of party, in this county,” she remarked.

District 5 Supervisor Jeff Serdy indicated readiness to move forward after the investigation, deeming the findings “pretty open and shut.” Board Chairman Mike Goodman also noted the timing of Cavanaugh’s allegations, suggesting they served as a distraction following his loss in the Republican primary for Pinal County sheriff.

McClure expressed disapproval of Cavanaugh’s handling of his responsibilities, asserting that the situation deviated from the duties expected of a board supervisor. The financial implications of the investigation also concerned some board members, with Goodman estimating costs to exceed $100,000 for the expedited review process.

For those interested, a complete copy of the report is available on the board’s agenda page. Looking ahead, Cavanaugh plans to run as a write-in candidate against Pinal County Recorder Dana Lewis in the upcoming general election scheduled for November 5, 2024.