A Maricopa County supervisor said the recent Arizona Supreme Court ruling clarifies the responsibilities of the Maricopa County Recorder and the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors.

The supervisor said the dispute should have been resolved through discussions, collaboration and mediation rather than litigation. The statement also noted the supervisor had supported returning the recorder's duties before 2025.

The supervisor said county employees, taxpayers and voters are best served when elected officials work together to address issues.

"The Arizona Supreme Court has now spoken, and I fully respect its decision. We will follow the Court's guidance and continue working to ensure a smooth, secure, and transparent election process."

The supervisor said the focus has been on providing election staff with direction, maintaining voter confidence and ensuring county government administers elections.

The statement also called for cooperation among the Board of Supervisors, Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap and election staff to implement the court's ruling.

"Now is the time to move forward. I look forward to working collaboratively with Recorder Heap, my fellow Board members, and our dedicated election staff to implement the Court's guidance professionally and without unnecessary conflict."

The supervisor also said the ruling provides an opportunity to improve Arizona election laws to provide more direction for future county boards and recorders and reduce legal disputes.

"The people of Maricopa County expect their elected leaders to respect the rule of law, work together, and put public service ahead of disagreements. That remains my commitment, and I hope today's decision allows all of us to turn our full attention back to serving the voters."

This report was written with the assistance of artificial intelligence.