Arizona County Supervisor Pleads Guilty in Election Case

Peggy Judd, a Cochise County Supervisor, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge for failing to fulfill her duty as an election officer during the 2022 midterm results. This plea, entered in Maricopa County Superior Court, avoided a potential felony charge and was seen as a significant step in maintaining election integrity in Arizona.

The charges arose when Judd, along with fellow Republican board member Tom Crosby, delayed the canvassing of election results. A court eventually ordered them to perform their duties. A spokesperson for Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes stated the plea is a stern reminder of the commitment to protecting Arizona's electoral system.

Crosby, who also faced charges, will stand trial in January, while Judd opted not to seek reelection. Arizona's shifting political dynamics have seen Democrats gain influence, particularly in urban centers like Phoenix, contributing to increased scrutiny of election processes.