Politics
Three ballot printers replaced after overnight access concern at Chandler-Gilbert voting site
Maricopa County election officials replaced three ballot-on-demand printers at Chandler-Gilbert Community College after an inspector found their paper trays appeared to have been opened overnight. Officials say no voters were affected, and the sheriff’s office and campus security are investigating.
Maricopa County election officials are investigating a report of overnight access to ballot-on-demand printers at an early voting site at Chandler-Gilbert Community College after an inspector found paper trays on three machines appeared to have been opened.
The inspector reported the issue on Oct. 16, according to the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office. The office said no voters were affected and that voting continued without interruption after replacement equipment was sent to the site.
The Recorder’s Office said its procedure is to remove and secure ballot paper each night, leaving the printers’ trays empty and unusable. The three original devices were returned for forensic examination.
The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office and campus security are investigating. Officials have not identified who accessed the site, and the recorder’s office said human error remains a possibility as investigators determine what happened.
Early voting began Oct. 7. Maricopa County Recorder Justin Heap said voters should be informed when concerns arise, adding that the office would investigate and share its findings. The inquiry comes as residents cast ballots in the 2026 midterm election, making clear information about election procedures and any security concerns important to public confidence.