Arizona County Supervisors Seek Dismissal of Election Interference Charges

Two Arizona county supervisors, Tom Crosby and Peggy Judd, are seeking the dismissal of criminal charges against them for allegedly interfering with the certification of the 2022 general election in Cochise County. The supervisors are accused of delaying the canvassing of election results, despite repeated legal advice that their actions were illegal.

Crosby and Judd have filed motions to dismiss the case, arguing that the state election interference law they are charged under is unconstitutional and that the case was brought for political purposes. They claim that no interference occurred as the secretary of state ultimately met the statewide certification deadline, despite the delay in Cochise County.

The supervisors were indicted in November 2023 on accusations of conspiracy and interference with an election officer for voting to delay the canvassing of the county's election results in 2022. They claim the delay was due to concerns from constituents over unproven claims of election fraud and a procedural requirement.

State attorneys have defended the indictment, stating that the grand jury was properly instructed and that Crosby and Judd are not immune from criminal prosecution. The state prosecutor argues the delay required the secretary of state to spend public funds and increased "confusion" and "chaos," which interfered with the secretary's duties.

Why this matters: The case highlights ongoing tensions and controversies surrounding election integrity and the certification process in the United States. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future and the consequences for elected officials who delay or interfere with election certification.

The case is currently in the pre-trial phase, with a trial scheduled for August. The defendants argue they have legislative immunity and that the case should be tried in Cochise County, not Maricopa County. The judge has not yet issued a ruling, and a pretrial conference is set for May 9. If convicted, Crosby and Judd could face up to 2 1/2 years in prison and a $150,000 fine.

Key Takeaways

• 2 AZ county supervisors seek dismissal of charges for delaying 2022 election certification
• Supervisors claim election interference law is unconstitutional, case is politically motivated
• State argues supervisors' delay increased "confusion" and "chaos" in election process
• Case could set precedent for consequences for officials who interfere with certification
• If convicted, supervisors face up to 2.5 years in prison and $150,000 fine