Maricopa County Officials Prepare for 2026 Elections

County Recorder and State Representative Collaborate on Voting Integrity

Apr. 1, 2026 at 1:47pm

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A dimly lit government office with a solitary ballot box in the center, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation and the importance of the electoral process.In a politically divided state, election officials from both parties work together to ensure the integrity of the democratic process.Maricopa Today

As Maricopa County election officials prepare to mail out the first ballots for the 2026 elections, State Representative Kate Brophy McGee and County Recorder Justin Heap are working together toward the shared goal of a successful and fair electoral process, despite their differing political views.

Why it matters

Ensuring the integrity of elections is a critical issue, especially in a politically divided state like Arizona. The collaboration between Brophy McGee and Heap, who have contrasting political affiliations, demonstrates the importance of bipartisanship in safeguarding the democratic process.

The details

Brophy McGee, a Republican state representative, and Heap, a Democratic county recorder, have been working to address concerns about election security and accessibility. They have been meeting regularly to discuss procedures, address voter concerns, and coordinate efforts to educate the public about the voting process.

  • The first ballots for the 2026 elections will be mailed out in the coming weeks.

The players

Kate Brophy McGee

A Republican state representative in Arizona who is working with the county recorder to ensure the integrity of the 2026 elections.

Justin Heap

The Democratic county recorder of Maricopa County, Arizona, who is collaborating with the state representative to prepare for the 2026 elections.

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What they’re saying

“We may have our differences, but we're both committed to making sure every eligible voter can cast their ballot and have confidence in the process.”

— Kate Brophy McGee, State Representative

“It's important that we work together, regardless of party affiliation, to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure a fair and transparent process.”

— Justin Heap, County Recorder

What’s next

Brophy McGee and Heap plan to continue their collaborative efforts in the lead-up to the 2026 elections, including hosting joint town halls and coordinating voter education campaigns.

The takeaway

The bipartisan cooperation between Brophy McGee and Heap serves as a model for how election officials can work together to safeguard the democratic process, even in the face of political divisions.