An Arizona Republican who lost the 2022 election for state attorney general by a margin of 280 votes faced a double setback on Monday. A judge dismissed his lawsuit and allowed officials to pursue sanctions against him. Abe Hamadeh, who is currently running for Congress, criticized the verification process for mail-in ballot signatures and sought to have the race decertified and a recount ordered. Judge Susanna Pineda of Maricopa County rejected all of Hamadeh’s requests, stating that he was attempting to “overturn the will of the people.” Pineda also granted Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and Attorney General Kris Mayes the right to pursue sanctions against Hamadeh and his lawyer, Ryan Heath. There was no immediate response from either party. In addition, Pineda dismissed the claims made by Cochise County Supervisor Tom Crosby and Arizona resident David Mast, who were also seeking either a recount or a new election for governor and attorney general. Both individuals may also face sanctions.
Arizona Election-Challenge Lawsuit Dismissed by Judge
