Helen Purcell: Insights from a Political Recorder on Life and Legacy

Helen Purcell, who served as the Maricopa County Recorder from 1989 until 2017, has made significant contributions to the evolution of election systems and public trust in governance. Even after her tenure, Purcell remains active in efforts to reinforce that trust.

Purcell’s political journey began unexpectedly. Initially working in the title industry, she developed strong professional relationships that would shape her future. Her husband, Joe, encouraged her to assist a friend running for governor, despite her limited political knowledge at that time.

In 1974, as the election approached, Purcell’s involvement intensified. From part-time support, she transitioned to a full-time role in Russ Williams’ campaign. There, she encountered other political figures, including Jane Hull, with whom she formed a lasting friendship.

Working on the campaign allowed her to expand her knowledge of politics. Before she got involved, she had only voted. The engagement ignited a passion within her, offering an avenue to make a difference in her community.

Purcell noticed a disconnect among constituents at city events, where complaints about city governance were frequent, yet many attendees didn’t vote. This observation motivated her to advocate for increased voter participation.

When she decided to run for office herself, Purcell faced the unique challenge of being a woman in politics. She frequently found herself questioned about her qualifications, whereas male candidates seldom faced such scrutiny—an oversight she believed was rooted in gender bias.

In her bid for the recorder position, Purcell felt unprepared against a field of established candidates, including a city councilwoman and a highly educated rival. However, with encouragement from Republican women’s clubs, she forged ahead, utilizing strategic outreach to connect with voters.

The campaign proved successful, albeit by a narrow margin, which came as a surprise to Purcell. Winning the election marked the beginning of a challenging yet rewarding chapter in her life.

During her tenure, Purcell championed an initiative to automate the office through strategic funding from recorded documents—a move that substantially enhanced operational efficiency. Her leadership in this area positioned Maricopa County as a frontrunner in election management.

However, her time in office was not without challenges. A tumultuous sheriff’s race between Arpaio and Penzone marked a turning point, forcing Purcell to install bulletproof glass due to threats received during the election’s prolonged count.

Faced with various crises, such as bomb threats and polling place relocations due to severe weather, Purcell demonstrated resilience. Her confidence in her well-trained team was crucial during these testing moments.

Guided by the philosophy of hard work and the importance of family balance, Purcell reflects on her career with a sense of accomplishment. Her contributions to Arizona’s political landscape underscore the impact of dedicated public service.