County Recorder Stephen Richer
By Mary Jo Pitzl || The Arizona Republic
Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer was accused of violating state law by using his taxpayer-funded website to promote a political position on a ballot measure in a complaint filed with the state Attorney General’s Office.
Earlier this week, Richer posted a statement from the Arizona Association of County Recorders opposing Proposition 309, which proposes additional requirements for voter identification. The recorders are in charge of early voting, which would face stricter rules under the terms of the ballot measure.
Richer removed the statement from the county recorder’s website Thursday upon learning of the complaint and said he takes responsibility for his action.
The complaint, filed by attorney Tim La Sota, points to two state laws that bar using taxpayer resources to influence the outcome of an election.
“This website is not at Mr. Richer’s disposal to use as a campaign website for his favored political causes,” La Sota wrote in the complaint.
In addition, La Sota said examination of the opposition statement document showed a county employee created it early afternoon Monday, during regular office hours. While public employees can get involved in campaigns, they must do this on their own time.
