Staff Reports
Maricopa County and the Arizona Secretary of State’s office worked together to ensure accurate information about the 2020 election audit and elected officials’ posts were shared on social media. They collaborated with third parties to monitor and address any misinformation that could arise, especially during the Senate hearing on the audit results.
The audit, conducted by the Republican-controlled Arizona state Senate, confirmed President Joe Biden’s victory in Arizona. However, it also flagged over 50,000 ballots for further investigation due to concerns like people voting from old addresses or double voting. This raised questions and calls for more scrutiny from supporters of former President Donald Trump.
Leading up to the audit results’ release, social media companies like Facebook contacted the Secretary of State’s office to discuss potential concerns about misinformation spreading from the Senate hearing. Both Maricopa County and the Secretary of State’s office had similar worries about misinformation and harassment emerging from the audit publication.
Additionally, Maricopa County and the Secretary of State’s office collaborated with social media platforms to monitor election information for the 2022 midterms. They discussed plans with companies like Facebook and Twitter regarding elections and misinformation on their platforms, emphasizing the importance of accurate information for voters.
Notably, posts by elected officials were also reported for misinformation. The Secretary of State’s office flagged a post by a senator calling for a recount and audit of the 2020 general election, citing disproved theories. Maricopa County also discussed holding elected officials accountable for spreading misinformation and monitored their social media content closely.
In response to concerns about misinformation and threats to staff, Maricopa County emphasized the importance of ensuring accurate information reaches the public. While they respect freedom of speech, the county asserted its responsibility to correct misinformation that could mislead the community. The Secretary of State’s office and the governor’s office did not comment on the matter.
This collaboration between government offices and social media platforms highlights the ongoing efforts to combat misinformation and ensure transparency in election information. By monitoring and addressing inaccuracies, authorities aim to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and provide voters with correct and reliable information.
