Maricopa County Settles Election Control Dispute With Justin Heap

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors and County Recorder Justin Heap reached a settlement on July 15, 2026, resolving a legal dispute that began in June 2025. Heap had sued the predominantly Republican board, alleging it illegally seized control of statutory election functions. The conflict followed an Arizona Supreme Court ruling that the board had unlawfully taken over the recorder's IT staff and systems.

The agreement divides election duties: Heap will oversee voter registration, signature verification, early voting operations, and the selection of ballot drop box locations. The Board of Supervisors, through the Maricopa County Elections Department, will maintain control over Election Day voting, emergency voting, equipment maintenance, and the counting of all ballots. To support these functions, the board will transfer up to $21 million to the recorder's office, which includes $15 million for a new information technology system.

Board Chair Kate Brophy McGee supported the deal to end the litigation and provide certainty for voters. However, Democratic Supervisor Steve Gallardo voted against the settlement or abstained, citing concerns over partisan staffing and Heap's ties to America First Legal. An interim plan approved by the Supreme Court of Arizona will govern the upcoming July 21 primary, while Judge Christopher Coury will continue as a special master for future disputes.