PHX Reporter

The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors has approved funding for an independent review of election administration and technology. This review will focus on key aspects such as physical security, chain of custody, and tabulation.

Chairman Thomas Galvin from District 2 stated, “Maricopa County believes government should be accountable and transparent. In my Chairman’s speech, I promised an independent review of Maricopa County election processes and procedures. That work starts today with Board approval of funding to our Internal Audit Department for a comprehensive review on key aspects of election administration in Maricopa County. We welcome the opportunity to improve!”

Vice Chair Kate Brophy McGee from District 3 added, “We are united in our belief that Maricopa County administers free and fair elections. However, I believe this comprehensive review will give voters more confidence and ultimately strengthen American democracy.”

The technology audit will ensure that election equipment was not tampered with during the 2024 election cycle and cannot connect to the internet. The process will be managed by the Maricopa County Internal Audit Department without influence from the Board or staff. Companies interested in conducting the audit can bid for the project.

Supervisor Mark Stewart from District 1 commented, "Maricopa County deserves best-in-class elections. Today, a united Board took action to invest in a comprehensive, independent review of election processes and procedures because we recognize the value of outside expertise."

Supervisor Debbie Lesko from District 4 expressed her satisfaction: “It’s not enough to say ‘trust us.’ Good government demands transparency and thoroughness in making sure taxpayers are getting what they paid for: in this case, fair and efficient elections.”

Supervisor Steve Gallardo from District 5 noted that since their last major review in 2021, many components have been upgraded: “Since we have an off cycle with only smaller jurisdictional audits, now is the right time to perform another in-depth review.”

The technology audit is expected to conclude by summer 2025 with parts of the comprehensive review finishing by fall 2025. Findings will be released publicly without edits or changes.

All related information will be accessible at Maricopa.gov/2025ElectionReview.