Arizona’s Republican groups, both national and local, have taken legal action against Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, aiming to invalidate or modify the Elections Procedure Manual, which they claim jeopardizes election integrity. This lawsuit, filed in Maricopa County Superior Court by the Republican National Committee, Arizona Republican Party, and Yavapai County Republican Party, is the second in two weeks targeting the manual. The manual, updated every two years by the secretary of state, requires approval from the attorney general and governor, all currently Democrats. Ronna McDaniel, Chairwoman of the Republican National Committee, criticized the manual, alleging it undermines election integrity, echoed by Arizona GOP Chairwoman Gina Swoboda, who called it a blatant attempt to rewrite election law.
The lawsuit alleges violations of public comment and disclosure requirements, asserting that Fontes didn’t allow adequate time for public input on proposed changes, offering only 15 days instead of the mandated 30. Additionally, they claim Fontes submitted an updated draft for final approval without proper public comment. Republicans argue that critical sections of the manual weren’t disclosed between the draft and final publication. They challenge specific changes, including a provision allowing “federal-only voters” to participate in presidential elections without proving citizenship and a rule limiting public access to voter signature records.Fontes’ office responded that they hadn’t been officially served the lawsuit but received a courtesy copy, declining to comment on pending litigation. In a separate lawsuit filed earlier by Republican House Speaker Ben Toma and Senate President Warren Peterson, they contended that certain manual changes lacked legislative authority. The legal battle reflects partisan tensions over election procedures, with Republicans aiming to contest changes they perceive as detrimental to their interests. Fontes, facing criticism from GOP officials, stands by the manual updates, arguing for their legality and importance in ensuring fair elections. As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome will shape election administration in Arizona, influencing future voting practices and party dynamics.
