Arizona State Reps. Rachel Jones, Republican of Tucson, and Teresa Martinez, the Republican representing Maricopa, sent a letter last week to Attorney General Kris Mayes requesting an immediate investigation into the Pima County Recorder Gabriella Cazares-Kelly’s handling of the 2024 General Election.
The representatives’ request follows reports of “significant and highly concerning” issues involving the Pima County Recorder’s actions leading up to and during the 2024 General Election, including:
- Shutting down of early ballot request portal. The Pima County Recorder’s Office disabled its online ballot request system six days before the legal deadline, affecting nearly 4,000 voters. The decision has raised concerns about compliance with Arizona election laws and potential voter disenfranchisement.
- Inmate voter registration program. Allegations of inadequate safeguards in the recorder’s voter registration program for inmates have prompted questions about whether ineligible individuals may have been allowed to vote. Previous inquiries into this matter, including a letter sent by Reps. Jones and Cory McGarr (R-Marana) on June 5, went unanswered.
- Handling of undeliverable and returned ballots. Concerns about how undeliverable ballots were processed, stored and tracked have also been raised. A follow-up letter sent by Reps Jones. and McGarr on Oct. 24 to clarify compliance with Arizona law likewise received no response.
“Election integrity is the foundation of our democracy, and voters deserve to know their elections are being administered fairly, lawfully and transparently,” said Martinez. “The numerous irregularities and lack of accountability from the Pima County Recorder’s Office demand a full investigation.”
A copy of her letter is and available here.
