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4w ago

Maricopa County Tests Early-Ballot ID Options As Arizona Voting Rules Shift

The trial shows how a 2026 law could replace signature checks with ID to speed counting.

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Officials and poll workers participate in a mock election on Wed., April 1, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. Officials used the simulation to test equipment and procedures before the primary and general elections, as well as try out a new voting option intended to speed up counting.
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Overview

  • Maricopa County ran a mock election to rehearse new early-ballot processing required by a state law taking effect in 2026.
  • The county said the new process is optional for voters, who can still mail early ballots or drop them off as before.
  • The law offers two paths that replace signature checks with in-person ID, one before election day at vote centers and one on election day with on-site tabulation.
  • Two measures could reach the Arizona ballot that pull in opposite directions on mail voting, including a universal ID requirement and the Protect the Vote initiative that needs about 380,000 signatures.
  • The test comes as President Trump orders new limits on mail voting and Arizona leaders say they are ready to challenge the order in court, with the federal SAVE Act still short of the 60 Senate votes it needs.