AZ Judge in Alternate Electors Controversy Faces Backlash Over Pro-Kamala Harris Emails

By Matthew Holloway |

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Bruce Cohen is under fire following revelations from emails obtained by Rep. Travis Grantham. These emails indicate that Cohen urged his fellow judges and commissioners to publicly defend Vice President Kamala Harris against accusations of being a “DEI hire.” Critics accuse Cohen of exhibiting racist bias, particularly towards white men, in his appeal for support of Harris and colleagues identified as “persons of color.”

According to reports from the Arizona Daily Independent, Cohen’s outrage stemmed from comments insinuating that Harris’ position was the result of diversity hiring practices. This critique contradicts statements made by President Joe Biden during his 2020 campaign when he openly committed to selecting a woman and considering candidates from diverse racial backgrounds for the vice presidency.

Cohen also objected to inquiries regarding Harris’s integrity, particularly allegations linking her to inappropriate relationships with influential political figures, a nod to her controversial past with former California Speaker Willie Brown. Following her relationship with Brown, who later became Mayor of San Francisco, Harris was propelled into her role as San Francisco’s district attorney.

In one of the emails uncovered, Cohen stated: “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. We must speak out…” His remarks continued, equating dissent toward Harris and the refusal to defend her to the historical atrocities committed during World War II.

Cohen referenced Martin Niemoller’s post-war essay, drawing a parallel between past horrors and current societal challenges, asserting that silence in the face of opposition is problematic. However, just two days later, he appeared to retract his initial comments in an email that suggested his earlier passion had clouded his judgment. He expressed regrets for any distress caused by his previous statements.

This incident raises questions about adherence to the Arizona Code of Judicial Conduct, which mandates that judges maintain public confidence in their integrity and impartiality. Cohen’s comments could be viewed as violating Rule 1.2, which prohibits judges from engaging in political activities or making statements that could affect the integrity of ongoing legal matters.

Further complicating the situation, Cohen mentioned his ongoing trial concerning the 2020 Alternate Electors, criticizing the defendants for perceived misconduct, which some view as undermining his impartiality. His comments about legislative behavior suggested bias, prompting concern from political figures.

Arizona Senate President Warren Petersen voiced his apprehension regarding Cohen’s suitability to preside over the case. He emphasized Rule 2.11, which necessitates judicial disqualification if impartiality cannot be assured, highlighting the importance of fairness in the judicial process.

As it stands, arguments in the case against the Alternate Electors are set to commence in January 2026. Cohen, who was appointed by Democratic Governor Janet Napolitano in 2005, may be nearing retirement, raising questions about the implications of his conduct in the lead-up to his potential departure.

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