Ep. 9 | Maricopa County (AZ) Recorder Stephen Richer

Election Day is just around the corner! To get you ready to cast your ballot and answer some questions about our voting process, we invited Maricopa County, Arizona Recorder Stephen Richer to join us in studio. Stephen has established himself as one of the foremost experts on voting systems and the election process in the country.

Chris and Yvette talk to Stephen about his background, why he decided to run for Recorder, how he withstood and fought back against unfounded attacks after the 2020 election, the importance of voting and democracy, and being named a "Democracy Defender" by Time Magazine. Plus, Stephen shares his love of learning - and challenges with changing a flat tire.

We hope you enjoy the episode. Please tell your friends to listen - and don't forget to register to vote and make your voice heard!


You can follow Stephen on X for the latest on voting - and everything from sports, to politics, to the latest Arizona news.

A few of the websites discussed on the podcast, including for helping those affected by Hurricane Helene, are found below.

Vote.gov
Servicearizona.com (To register to vote in Arizona - deadline for the 2024 election is Monday, October 7!)
Maricopa.gov | (For information on the voting process in Maricopa County)
Blue Ridge Public Radio | (Information on Hurricane Helene relief efforts)
Register for the 2025 Reservation Economic Summit
Register for upcoming Native Edge Institutes

Chapters

• 0:28 Latest from The National Center
• 8:06 Intro to Stephen
• 10:06 Stephen's Background and Why He Ran for Recorder
• 12:09 Massive Maricopa County
• 15:26 Stephen and the 2020 Election
• 20:45 Democracy Defender
• 22:52 Mentors as "Touchstones"
• 24:18 The 2024 Election
• 26:51 Why Voting Matters
• 29:09 Voting Deadlines
• 31:33 Dr.(?) Stephen Richer
• 36:19 Changing Flats
• 40:40 Neighbors Helping Neighbors
• 42:28 Don't Be Afraid to Disagree - and Ask Questions
• 44:38 What's on the Ballot in AZ
• 47:03 A Plug for Democracy
• 48:24 Good Company
• 50:21 Wrap Up