Maricopa County Recorder Stripped of Essential Elections Authority

By Staff Reporter |

Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap is currently facing significant limitations in his role due to recent decisions made by his predecessor and the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors (BOS). Heap’s functionality has been hindered by a lack of access to crucial resources, including a complete budget, adequate staffing, IT support, and even county buildings.

The Arizona Freedom Caucus has pointed fingers at BOS Chair Thomas Galvin, accusing him of stripping Heap of essential electoral powers. State Senator Jake Hoffman has called on residents to take action, urging them to reach out to Galvin regarding these changes. “Supervisor Thomas Galvin has STRIPPED Recorder Justin Heap of his control over our Elections and is REFUSING to reinstate it,” exclaimed Hoffman.

Significant changes affecting the Recorder’s office originated in October, when former BOS members and then-Recorder Stephen Richer approved new protocols. These modifications became effective in December, granting the BOS oversight of the recorder’s $5 million budget and IT staff, whereas previously, the recorder managed early ballot processing.

A county spokesperson justified these alterations, stating, “In Arizona, elections are administered by the County Board of Supervisors and the County Recorder. The changes aim to enhance efficiency, particularly in Information Technology services.” Under Arizona law, county boards of supervisors play a critical role in election administration.

Despite these constraints, Heap remains proactive. Recently, he announced a policy change allowing bipartisan election observers into the signature verification room. Heap’s initial month in office also saw several achievements, including the removal of a record number of inactive voters from registration rolls and preparations for enhanced compliance with the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act for military personnel.

Heap also took action to streamline operations by eliminating six external communications positions, reallocating those resources to bolster election database management. Looking ahead, he is hopeful for a new agreement with the BOS that would restore his authority. “I am currently working with the members of the Board of Supervisors to replace this agreement with one that serves the people,” Heap noted, indicating his commitment to secure, efficient, and accurate elections in Maricopa County.

In a recent social media update, Heap expressed enthusiasm about the first month in his role. He highlighted ongoing initiatives aimed at increasing transparency and voter confidence.