I find it frustrating that the Senate would even consider bringing forward a motion of contempt towards the Board of Supervisors.
The members of this Board have worked with the Senate and heard their desire to have access to the 2.1 million ballots that were cast in November of 2020.
It is our understanding that state law prohibits the release of the ballots once they have been sealed. There is nothing prohibiting the Senate and their lawyers from going into a courtroom and explaining to a judge why the Board should disregard state law and allow access to people’s ballots and personal information.
I met personally with the Senate president and understood both sides would work to find a path to success. I want to be clear: the county will participate in any court hearing with the Senate if they plan to argue the restrictions on ballots should be waived.
Instead of suggesting that we are violating the laws the legislature wrote, they should turn their attention to finding a solution. If they truly believe in the legality of their position, they will join us in seeking a solution through the courts.
The county will continue with the audits currently being performed by two independent and qualified audit firms. You can read more about the checks and balances already performed to ensure the Maricopa County elections were administered with integrity in 2020.
Jack Sellers is a member of the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors representing county District 1.