Adrian Fontes Can’t Silence Our Battle for Election Integrity

By the Arizona Free Enterprise Club |

Arizonans deserve to participate in elections that uphold the principles of fairness, transparency, and legality. As the state’s chief election officer, Secretary of State Adrian Fontes has a responsibility to foster an electoral environment that reflects these values. A crucial component of this is the creation of an Elections Procedures Manual (EPM) that provides clear and impartial guidelines for county recorders in the execution of election laws.

However, concerns have arisen regarding Fontes’ recent EPM, which many view as one of the most radical versions in Arizona’s history. Critics argue that certain provisions in this manual infringe upon First Amendment rights, effectively imposing limitations on free political speech. Such actions raise serious questions about Fontes’ adherence to both the Arizona and U.S. Constitutions.

In light of these legal concerns, a lawsuit was filed against Fontes, arguing that his EPM imposes unconstitutional speech restrictions, misrepresents statutes, and blurs the lines between guidance and legal mandates. Last week, a ruling by the Maricopa County Superior Court sided with the plaintiffs, declaring that Fontes’ EPM is in violation of the Arizona Constitution.

Despite the court’s decisions, Fontes has not acknowledged these errors. Instead, his response involved publicly discrediting the plaintiffs, suggesting a reluctance to engage with the legal ramifications of the ruling. This reaction indicates a troubling dismissal of accountability and an unwillingness to amend the EPM according to constitutional standards.