The political landscape in Apache County is heating up as Fernie Madrid, a former candidate for superintendent, has filed a lawsuit against the ex-county attorney, Michael Whiting. Madrid claims Whiting used intimidation tactics to force him out of the 2024 race.
Madrid, who previously vied for the superintendent role against Joy Whiting, Michael Whiting’s wife, alleges that he was subjected to a campaign of harassment by Whiting and two of his staff members. According to the lawsuit, the staff involved included Daryl Greer, a lead investigator, and Trent Jensen, a legal assistant. The accusations involve following Madrid, vandalizing his property, and sending threatening messages.
These allegations are not without merit, as Greer has admitted in court to conducting surveillance on Madrid as ordered by Whiting (source).
Madrid recounts an incident where he was physically assaulted while collecting signatures. He stated that Greer and Jensen approached him, pushed him, and knocked his clipboard to the ground, warning, “Michael Whiting is just getting started with you.”
The situation escalated with Madrid receiving anonymous letters that contained personal details about his family, urging him to withdraw from the race. The letters ominously included a withdrawal form and a deadline of April 1.
“I think the bottom line is to assure that this never happens to anyone else in my position,” Madrid expressed, emphasizing the importance of preventing such intimidation against political candidates.
Madrid took these matters to the Arizona attorney general following the physical confrontation. His complaint details the emotional and physical toll these actions took on him, citing pain, anxiety, and a loss of confidence in his community.
Despite Whiting’s re-election in 2024, he was unable to assume office due to an indictment and subsequent suspension from practicing law. Consequently, Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren was appointed as his replacement in December (source).
Meanwhile, Joy Whiting continues her role as superintendent despite facing her own legal challenges concerning the misuse of school funds.
Madrid is pursuing a judgment that recognizes Whiting’s actions as coercive, seeking compensation for the resources expended on his campaign. His attorney, Mike Greenberg, argues that Whiting’s actions undermine democratic principles. “In America, we resolve our political disagreements through open debate and at the ballot box, not through government officials intimidating and harassing their opponents,” Greenberg stated.
Although Madrid has not ruled out another run for the superintendent position, he remains undecided about his future plans. “I think that’s something that I need to explore, and I will make a decision at a later date,” he said.
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