Secretary Fontes Leads Discussion on Expanding Ballot Access, Increasing Voter Participation at Summit of Tribal and County Officials

Phoenix - Secretary of State Adrian Fontes led a working session today with a group of esteemed tribal leaders, county election officials, and voting rights advocates at the Summit of Tribal and County Officials hosted by the Inter-Tribal Council of Arizona. The event, held on Sept. 14-15 at Cliff Castle Casino in Camp Verde, served as a forum for fostering relationships and strengthening collaboration between key stakeholders in preparation for the 2024 elections.

The focus of this week's summit was expanding access to the ballot for all Arizona voters, as well as increasing participation in elections throughout the state. Topics discussed included the history of Native American voting rights, a review of voter participation in the 2022 elections, tribe and county best practices, and voter engagement planning on tribal lands. 

Secretary Fontes expressed his gratitude to participants, stating, "I am deeply appreciative of the tribal leaders, county elected officials, administrators, and advocates for their unwavering commitment to all Arizona voters. The cooperative spirit displayed here today exemplifies our shared dedication to upholding the right of every eligible voter to have their voice heard as part of our democratic system of government."

Pima County, Coconino County, the Sandra Day O'Connor Indian Legal Program, the Indian Legal Clinic, and All Voting is Local joined the Secretary of State's office in organizing the one-and-a-half-day event. 

For more information about the Secretary of State's initiatives and upcoming events, visit azsos.gov.