Former Maricopa County Recorder Takes Center Stage at Leftist Anti-CPAC Summit

By Staff Reporter |

This weekend, former Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer will headline the “Principles First” summit in Washington, D.C. The event aims to merge libertarian and progressive values as foundational elements of modern conservatism.

Richer is set to lead a “keynote conversation” with former Congressman Adam Kinzinger, who now serves as a commentator for CNN. This marks Richer’s continued involvement following his participation in last year’s summit that centered on election integrity.

During last year’s discussions, Richer emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy democratic system, stating, “We can’t cede the territory [in politics]. We can’t just have it be people who don’t believe in democracy and Democrats.”

This year, Principles First has expressed support for Democratic candidate Kamala Harris in the upcoming presidential election. Richer, who endorsed Harris previously, continues to align with the organization’s mission.

Founded in 2019 as an alternative to the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC), Principles First was initiated by Heath Mayo, a corporate lawyer who has openly criticized former President Donald Trump. Mayo, who has voted for Biden and McMullin in past elections, has described Trump as a threat to both the Republican Party and constitutional principles.

This year’s summit features a lineup of speakers that includes various centrist, left-leaning Republicans, and Democrats. Notable figures such as entrepreneur Mark Cuban, Colorado Governor Jared Polis, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will join the discussions, along with a host of political analysts and commentators.

Organizations affiliated with the summit range from Unite America to the Center for Collaborative Democracy, showcasing a diverse coalition aimed at promoting democratic values. Past financial support for Principles First has included significant contributions from groups like Defending Democracy Together, which donated over $600,000 in 2023.