Maricopa County Election Dispute Heads to Mediation
In a bid to resolve a contentious election control dispute, Maricopa County officials are set to participate in a mediation process. The county’s Recorder, Justin Heap, alongside the Board of Supervisors, is preparing for discussions facilitated by an independent mediator following a legal mandate.
Initially, Judge Scott Blaney directed both parties to engage in a settlement meeting with Judge Christopher Coury. This order faced a temporary halt when the Arizona Court of Appeals intervened, issuing a stay on Heap’s previous legal victory concerning the county’s election management.
On Tuesday, the Arizona Supreme Court, through Justice John Lopez, adjusted the stay, allowing settlement talks to proceed. Consequently, Judge Blaney reinstated the mediation directive, emphasizing the necessity for both parties to engage in “good faith” negotiations under Judge Coury’s guidance.
“Plaintiff Recorder Heap and Defendant Board of Supervisors shall appear and fully participate in good faith in a settlement conference before the Honorable Christopher Coury at a date and time to be determined by Judge Coury,” Blaney stated. However, the date for this mediation session remains undetermined.
Both the Recorder and the Board express readiness for negotiation. Heap remarked, “Our office has consistently pursued practical solutions that protect voters and follow the law. We welcomed mediation, we developed a detailed transition plan, and we remain prepared to implement a lawful division of responsibilities without disrupting the upcoming election. We are encouraged that the Supreme Court is carefully considering those options.”
Previously, the Board had withdrawn from mediation after the Appeals Court’s stay, although Judge Blaney had noted that a court order was not a prerequisite for discussions. Board Chair Kate Brophy McGee confirmed their willingness to engage, stating, “Early voting for the 2026 Primary Election begins today. As we have said for months, time is of the essence to resolve Mr. Heap’s lawsuit in a manner that is consistent with the law, protects voters, and upholds the highest standards for election procedures. To that end, the Board of Supervisors welcomes mediated negotiations led by Judge Coury. We will make ourselves, our staff, and our attorneys available to begin these discussions as quickly as possible.”
The Arizona Supreme Court has not yet decided on Heap’s appeal to overturn the appeals court’s stay, which impacts the transfer of election duties back to the Recorder’s Office and the restoration of essential IT resources. This decision is crucial as early voting is underway for the July 21 primary. The court has requested that both parties provide briefs on critical election timelines, disputed duties, and potential temporary solutions for the current election cycle.
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