New undercover footage from O’Keefe Media Group reveals concerning instructions at Maricopa County election training sessions, where poll workers are being told not to intervene when they see potential election violations.
The most concerning revelation from the undercover footage involves instructions about handling multiple ballots. During the training session, a trainee raised a red flag about a situation they’d witnessed in the primary election.
“I had one question about drop off ballots,” the trainee asked. “We had a couple instances during the primary where somebody brought in a stack. It was kind of a point of contention. My question is are we allowed to say anything because it is a felony for people to turn in ballots outside their home?”
“We’re not any type of law enforcement,” Bricker told the trainees, adding that workers should accept all signed ballots, even when someone brings in multiple ballots at once.
Bricker’s response appears to contradict Arizona law. While state law restricts ballot handling to only family members, household members, and caregivers – making it illegal for anyone else to collect and deliver other people’s ballots (a practice known as “ballot harvesting”) – Bricker instructed poll workers not to intervene.
O’Keefe posted the county’s response in his Twitter feed which has spun up a lot of discussion.
MARICOPA COUNTY RESPONDS: Maricopa Deputy Elections Director Jennifer Liewer responds to OMG's Election Training Video calling it "unnecessary" & "disrespectful."
— James O'Keefe (@JamesOKeefeIII) October 25, 2024
"Maricopa County Elections has consistently been transparent in how we administer elections. To “secretly” videotape… pic.twitter.com/Nz56Km0NCS
What can voters do
If you’re concerned about possible election violations, here’s what you can do while protecting yourself from violating the law:
- Alert the poll site’s lead election official if you see someone dropping off multiple ballots
- Contact the County Recorder’s office or Secretary of State’s office to report concerns
- Remember, by law, you cannot take photos or videos within 75 feet of a polling place
- Stay calm and avoid confrontations to avoid accusations of voter intimidation which is illegal
The best way to protect your vote is to handle your own ballot whenever possible. If you need help delivering your ballot, remember that only a family member, someone living in your household, or your caregiver can legally help you.
For elderly voters or those with disabilities, official election workers can provide assistance through the Special Election Board, which follows strict procedures to protect your vote.
O’Keefe Media Group
O’Keefe Media Group (OMG) is a citizen journalism organization founded in 2023 by James O’Keefe. They specializes in undercover reporting. The group uses hidden cameras and citizen journalists to document wrongdoing or corruption in institutions. OMG describes their mission as “empowering citizen journalists with the support of a team of elite journalists to hold the powerful accountable.” For more information see their YouTube and website.
