Arizona Indicts 11 Republicans for Fake Elector Scheme
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes led an investigation into the 2020 election, resulting in the indictment of 11 Republicans for their involvement in a fake elector scheme.
Charges and Allegations
The indicted Republicans allegedly acted as fake electors by submitting a document to Congress falsely declaring former President Donald Trump’s victory over US President Joe Biden in Arizona. They face charges of conspiracy, fraud, and forgery.
Arizona’s Legal Action
Arizona became the fourth state in the US to take legal action against individuals involved in announcing false election results. The names of some individuals were redacted initially but will be revealed once all defendants have been served.
Individuals Indicted
- Kelli Ward – Former Arizona Republican Party Chair
- Anthony Kern and Jake Hoffman – State Legislators
- Michael Ward – Kelli Ward’s Husband
- Tyler Bowyer – Republican National Committee’s Arizona Committeeman
- Greg Safsten – Former Arizona GOP Executive Director
- Jim Lamon – Former US Senate Candidate
- Robert Montgomery – Former Head of the Cochise County GOP
- Samuel Moorhead, Nancy Cottle, and Loraine Pellegrino – Republican Party Activists
False Announcement and Response
In December 2020, the indicted Republicans falsely declared Trump’s victory in Arizona. Arizona GOP officials claimed the electors were duly elected and qualified, emphasizing the importance of ensuring accurate election results.
Legal Proceedings and Statements
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes emphasized the thoroughness of the investigation and the importance of upholding American democracy. Former President Donald Trump, Rudy Giuliani, and Mark Meadows have been named as unindicted co-conspirators in the case.
