Goodyear man alleges Turning Point state rep forged signature

A Goodyear resident claimed Turning Point Action's senior director and state Rep. Austin Smith, a Republican from Surprise, forged signatures in a re-election petition for Legislative District 29, according to a recently filed Maricopa County Superior Court lawsuit.

In the suit, at least two voters claim Smith may have personally forged signatures in his bid to be re-elected in Legislative District 29.

The district, in the far West Valley, includes portions of Glendale, El Mirage, Surprise, Litchfield Park, Goodyear and Morristown.

Smith, known as an election integrity candidate, is listed as the circulator for both voter signatures. In the complaint, two voters, Bruce Bell and Daniel Hernandez, claim they never signed Smith's petition. 

The lawsuit also claims the signatures of other items appear forged or similar. 

It also claims the signature styles resemble Smith's attestation signature on the petition.

Goodyear resident, Jim Ashurst, filed a challenge late Monday.

“Election integrity is the foundation of our democracy. When an elected official attempts to lie his way onto our ballot, he attacks the system that has made our community, our state and our country so great,” said Ashurst. “Voters in the West Valley and across the state deserve to be represented by a legislator who will uphold the rule of law. It’s deeply concerning that Smith has so little respect for Arizona voters. This is a betrayal of his constituents and all Arizonans and I hope Smith will be held accountable.” 

Arizona Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee issued a press release the same day the lawsuit dropped.

“If the lawsuit proves true, this forgery would be among the most egregious incidents by an elected official in recent Arizona election history and immediately disqualify Smith from the ballot,” claimed the committee in a press release.

In past social media posts, Smith has shown an interest in politics and affairs that is unrelated to the interests of his constituents.

In November, Smith asked county officials directly on social media about voting times and locations outside of his legislative district.

“Why is Maricopa County shutting down voting locations before the deadline to vote at Paradise Valley School District with a question on the ballot?” he asked. “Bill Gates what's the reason? Stephen Richter any idea?”

Goodyear voting locations showed matching closing times.

In his most recent campaign finance report filed with the state, Smith showed only three donations from individuals in his district. One Litchfield Park resident donated to Smith and no Goodyear residents donated to Smith.

Smith had several donations outside of his district, 14 from Wickenburg, two from Sedona and two from Scottsdale.

According to Smith, he qualified with above 50% of the required number of signatures needed.

Updated 4-16 4:30 p.m.: This story was changed to add the names of the individuals who claimed they never signed the petition. 

Added pictures from the complaint illustrating signature and handwriting styles.