Supervisor Kevin Cavanaugh recently participated in a candidate panel discussion at the Thunderbird Farms Fire Station, marking a critical point in his campaign for Pinal County Sheriff. Currently serving on the Pinal County Board of Supervisors, Cavanaugh is contesting the sheriff’s position against four opponents, raising significant concerns regarding his conduct during the election process.

Pinal County officials are preparing to address the fallout from Cavanaugh’s long-standing “stop the steal” campaign. A cybersecurity investigation is underway, focusing on Cavanaugh’s allegations that the primary election was compromised—an election he lost decisively. Results from this investigation are expected next month, which could prompt legal action against Cavanaugh.

According to a statement from county spokesperson James Daniels, specialists certified by the U.S. Election Assistance Commission conducted an election and cybersecurity assessment of the county’s tabulators on September 11, confirming that ballots remained untouched during the examination.

While the upcoming Board of Supervisors meeting agenda does not indicate a public discussion on these findings, two executive sessions will be convened to address potential legal repercussions stemming from Cavanaugh’s claims. The supervisor has filed a $65,000 notice of claim against Pinal County for “maladministration of the election,” alleging that irregularities occurred outside the tabulators, specifically concerning USB devices.

Cavanaugh has alleged that the election’s integrity relies heavily on the security of USB sticks used in the counting process, suggesting that improper access could alter results before they were processed by the tabulators. His assertions have sparked ongoing disagreements among fellow supervisors, with some expressing frustration over his repeated insinuations of election fraud.

The tension escalated during a special meeting on August 12, where Cavanaugh called the election results “impossible” and claimed to have identified anomalies in numerous Republican races, including his own. His comments drew ire from Chairman Mike Goodman, who stated that the meeting was not a forum for personal grievances.

Comments from District 3 Supervisor Stephen Miller labeled Cavanaugh as engaging in a “clown show,” underscoring the growing discontent among the board. In response to these disturbances, Vice Chair Jeff McClure recommended an external review of the methodologies behind Cavanaugh’s accusations, culminating in the recent cybersecurity assessment.

The Board of Supervisors plans to revisit Cavanaugh’s allegations during upcoming executive sessions, with legal counsel prepared to assess the situation. At a meeting on September 24, the agenda included discussions on potential litigation against Cavanaugh regarding his ongoing accusations.

Unwilling to participate in proceedings he feels are centered on his legal claims, Cavanaugh has indicated he may step away from public office entirely should his campaign fail or his allegations be dismissed. He maintains that his actions stem from a desire for transparency in government, asserting that the county’s handling of electoral processes undermines that ideal.

In response, McClure expressed confidence in the election department, assuring the public that Pinal County’s election systems are secure and reliable. He underscored the necessity for transparent and fair electoral processes as the county approaches the November elections.

The discourse surrounding Cavanaugh’s claims has attracted notable attention, with commentators suggesting that Pinal County suffers reputational damage irrespective of the outcome of his election lawsuit. This increasingly contentious climate reflects deeper issues within local governance and electoral integrity.