As part of Arizona PBS’ ongoing “AZ Votes 2026” election coverage initiative, a series titled “Candidates in Conversation,” we were joined by the candidates running for Arizona Secretary of State, the incumbent Adrian Fontes (D) and Arizona Representative Alexander Kolodin (R).
Secretary Fontes and Representative Kolodin discussed existing Arizona election systems and their respective plans going forward.
Secretary Fontes is an attorney and former prosecutor. He served as Maricopa County Recorder from 2016 until his election as Secretary of State in 2022.
Secretary Fontes’ campaign website said, “As Recorder, Secretary Fontes revolutionized the election system by ensuring that every eligible Arizonan had the access they needed to vote. Adrian enhanced ballot tracking technology and increased process transparency.”
Representative Kolodin was elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in 2022. Previously, he practiced law and was involved in multiple election-related lawsuits.
In a statement, Representative Kolodin said, “Arizonans are sick and tired of Adrian Fontes’ mismanagement of our election system [and are] ready for world-class elections that Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike can be proud of.”
