Judge Steps Aside in Controversial ‘Fake Electors’ Case Amid Bias Claims

Maricopa County Superior Court Judge Bruce Cohen has recused himself from the “fake electors” case, following accusations of bias linked to comments he made in a previous email. An attorney for one of the defendants, Sen. Jake Hoffman, claimed Cohen’s remarks drew parallels between Trump supporters and Nazis.

In his email sent to fellow judges, Cohen argued against remaining silent on various statements made by Trump on social media, focusing particularly on claims regarding Kamala Harris. He referenced Martin Niemoller’s essay about the dangers of silence during the Nazi regime, declaring it was important to speak out against perceived injustices.

Hoffman, a Republican from Queen Creek, is among those accused in connection to claims made after the 2020 election that Trump had secured Arizona’s electoral votes. This assertion has been widely debunked, leading to charges of conspiracy and forgery against him and several others.

Judge Cohen issued an apology for distributing his email but not for the content itself. Attorney Michael Columbo criticized the judge’s comments, stating they exhibited clear contempt for Trump. Columbo argued this bias could jeopardize Hoffman’s right to a fair trial.

Cohen’s email referenced an indictment that names Trump as an “unindicted co-conspirator.” Despite acknowledging the ongoing investigations into Trump, Attorney General Kris Mayes has confirmed that she has no intention of filing charges against him at this time.

Columbo asserts that Cohen’s prior sentiments create an inability to fairly adjudicate the case involving Hoffman and the other defendants. “The appearance of impropriety,” he noted, “cannot be ignored,” particularly given Cohen’s seemingly aligned rhetoric with those accusing Trump supporters of historical atrocities.

In his defense, Cohen maintained that his email highlighted the meritocratic advancement of judges, regardless of gender or race. He emphasized that his aim was to support the integrity of the judicial system and stressed that his comments were appropriate irrespective of political contexts.

Ultimately, acknowledging the potential for perceived bias, Cohen decided to step down from the case. He conveyed that protecting the integrity of judicial processes is paramount, noting that “even the appearance of bias cannot be allowed to undermine the fundamental fairness that is extended by the court to all who come before it.” The case will now be reassigned to another judge.