Arizona Judge Steps Aside in Alternate Electors Case Amid Bias Email Controversy

By Matthew Holloway |

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Bruce Cohen has stepped back from the alternate electors case after his emails surfaced, showing support for Vice President Kamala Harris and urging judicial colleagues to do the same. His decision comes amid heightened scrutiny regarding the impartiality of his judgments.

Reports highlighted that Cohen called on fellow judges and commissioners to defend Harris against accusations of being merely a “DEI Hire,” framing the discussion within racial and gender contexts. He emphasized the need for defense from white male judges and colleagues who identify as people of color, asserting that they should not remain silent against what he characterized as baseless criticisms.

Cohen’s emails contained stark language, noting, “It does matter if your chromosomes are made up of ‘XY.’ It matters even more if your skin color is characterized as ‘white’ or Caucasian.” He insisted it was imperative to collectively challenge derogatory narratives about colleagues, stating, “We cannot allow our female colleagues to feel as if they stand alone.”

In response, attorneys for Republican state Senator Jake Hoffman claimed that Cohen’s actions indicated a significant political bias that compromised his ability to render a fair judgment. This sentiment was echoed by Arizona attorney Mark L. Williams, who represents Rudy Giuliani, suggesting that Cohen’s statements warranted his recusal from the case.

Michael Colombo of the Dhillon Law Group elaborated in his motion for recusal, pointing to Cohen’s past communications as evidence of bias against Trump supporters. He remarked, “The utter contempt Judge Cohen displayed against President Trump…makes it clear that Senator Hoffman…cannot receive a fair trial before Judge Cohen.” Colombo also criticized Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes for her comments that purportedly demonized Republicans.

Cohen’s scheduled retirement in January adds another dimension to the unfolding situation. While he defended his emails as expressions of support for judicial integrity, he acknowledged that the perception of impropriety in his involvement remained a concern.

As the case awaits the assignment of a new judge, all previously scheduled hearings have been vacated, leaving many in the legal community awaiting developments.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.