Sam Crump

The Commission meeting included a discussion and deliberation regarding a notice of cross appeal in the Montenegro versus Fontis case. Following an executive session to discuss the matter, the Commission voted to authorize legal counsel to file the notice of cross appeal. The meeting also included a period for public comment before reaching adjournment.

The commission discussed the executive director's report, which included updates on candidate debates, voter education guides, and upcoming town hall events regarding water issues. They also deliberated on proposed legislative adjustments concerning primary election dates and their impact on the Clean Elections program. Additionally, the commission reviewed the final judgment in litigation involving the Secretary of State, authorized the filing of an application for attorneys' fees and costs, and approved the continued engagement of outside counsel for any potential appeals. Finally, they discussed proposed amendments to administrative rules regarding the use of clean election funds.

The Commission discussed the Executive Director's report regarding election debate schedules, voter education guides, and legislative updates concerning primary election dates. Key litigation matters included the successful resolution of the Commission's case against the Secretary of State regarding the recognition of party name changes, with subsequent authorization for outside counsel to apply for attorneys' fees and provide defense in potential appeals. The board also reviewed and approved an amendment to the Arizona Administrative Code regarding the use of campaign funds. Additionally, the Commission found probable cause to believe that a legislative candidate violated the Clean Elections Act and Rules due to failure to file reports and maintain records, as well as failure to repay funds.

The meeting agenda includes a discussion and possible action regarding the notice of cross-appeal of the Superior Court's ruling in Montenegro v. Fontes. Additionally, the Commission will convene an executive session to obtain legal advice and discuss litigation strategy regarding the case, followed by time for public comment.

The meeting began with a call to order, followed by the approval of the January 29, 2026 meeting minutes. Key discussions included an update on the ongoing litigation Montenegro v. Fontes regarding the Legislature's challenge to Proposition 211, where one portion was declared unconstitutional but the remainder of the claims were rejected. The Executive Director reported on changes to the primary election date, leading to adjustments in candidate qualifying and filing periods. Significant focus was placed on active voter education outreach events and the ongoing development of multiple versions of the Voter Guide. The Commission discussed the potential probable cause finding in MUR 25-03 concerning Monica Timberlake, ultimately agreeing to postpone the decision until the next month to allow her an opportunity to respond due to a medical appointment. A session was held in executive session to discuss the ongoing litigation between the Clean Elections Commission and the Secretary of State, Fontes. Further discussions addressed 2026 election legislation, including bills concerning the Independent Party, and a proposed amendment to Rule R2-20-113 to update language regarding the Voter Education Guide to include County candidates. Finally, the Commission approved the 2025 annual report for final distribution and recognized Renaldo Fowler for his extensive contributions to disability advocacy and election access in Arizona.