PHOENIX — Maricopa County Recorder Stephen Richer has lost his bid for re-election in a Republican primary, as reported by The Associated Press. Richer, who has been a staunch advocate for election integrity since his election in 2020, was defeated by Justin Heap, a state representative supported by the far-right Freedom Caucus. Heap garnered significant backing from conservative groups, while another candidate received 22% of the vote. Following the results, Richer acknowledged his defeat on social media, stating, "Elections have winners and, sadly, losers," and expressed his intention to move on