PHOENIX – In a key step ahead of the 2026 election cycle, Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes formally submitted the 2025 Election Procedures Manual (EPM) to Governor Katie Hobbs and Attorney General Kris Mayes for review, and it has officially been approved by all parties before the Dec. 31 deadline.
The EPM is a critical document that guides the conduct of elections across Arizona’s 15 counties. Often referred to as the “playbook” for election officials, the manual provides guidance when laws are vague, conflicting, or silent, ensuring consistency and compliance throughout the state.
Secretary Fontes is exceptionally proud of the working relationships among the three statewide offices and the fifteen counties that enabled the enactment of the second EPM of this term. This feat has not happened in well over a decade.
“The EPM ensures that every voter, in every corner of Arizona, has the same accountable and secure election process,” said Secretary Fontes in a statement. “Our work to ensure the successful delivery of the 2025 edition of the manual began nearly a year ago. The drafting process involved a detailed, line-by-line review with county election officials from across the political spectrum — Republicans and Democrats, from both large urban centers and rural counties. I want to thank everyone that took the time to engage with this year’s draft creation. Arizona held one of its longest public comment periods in the past 20 years, allowing four weeks for individuals and organizations to provide input. Voters can remain confident that this manual reflects bipartisan input, public transparency, and a deep commitment to the rule of law. With the policies approved here, we have successfully laid the foundation for 2026.”
“Local election officials are the backbone of our democracy, and they need clear, practical guidance to administer our elections,” said Attorney General Mayes. “The Election Procedures Manual gives Arizona’s election officials the tools they need to run fair and transparent elections.”
Governor Hobbs added, “Arizona’s elections are free, fair, and secure, and this Elections Procedures Manual will help keep them that way. I’m glad to approve this manual, which provides clear and consistent procedures for elections officials and enables them to do their jobs without partisan political interference. I will continue fighting to protect our democracy and ensure every citizen has the opportunity to make their voice heard at the ballot box.”
