Several important primaries for countywide positions are set to take place on Tuesday, July 30, in metro Phoenix. Voters in Maricopa County will have the opportunity to select candidates for county school superintendent, assessor, treasurer, and the high-profile county recorder. The outcome of these primaries will decide who moves on to the November election, where they could potentially govern the largest county in Arizona.

In the spotlight are the Republican primaries for recorder and school superintendent, with incumbents facing challenges from more extreme GOP candidates. The race for county recorder, in particular, has drawn national attention, with the outcome expected to indicate voter preferences for hard-right candidates. The primary results may also shape the chances of Democrats in the general election.

Incumbent Recorder Stephen Richer is being challenged by State Rep. Justin Heap and IT professional Don Hiatt, both of whom have raised concerns about county elections and pledged to clean up voter rolls if elected. Richer, who has strongly defended the integrity of the county's election operations, is seeking a second term and will face Democratic candidate Tim Stringham in November.

In the race for county school superintendent, incumbent Republican Steve Watson is up against Shelli Boggs and Nickie Kelley. Watson, a former teacher, highlights his efforts to support educators and improve school experiences. His opponents have criticized his leadership following an audit that found financial deficiencies. The winner will compete against Democrat Laura Metcalfe in the general election.

For the county treasurer position, incumbent John Allen, a former state lawmaker, is being challenged by CPA and Navy veteran William Lichtsinn. They differ on customer service improvements and investment strategies, with Lichtsinn emphasizing transparency in ballot storage. The treasurer plays a crucial role in tax collection and financial management for the county.

In the county assessor's race, Republican Eddie Cook and Democrat Gregory Freeman are running unopposed in the primary and will face off in November. Cook, a technology business leader, is seeking to retain his seat after being appointed in 2020. The county assessor plays a key role in property valuation and assessment.

Polls are set to close at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, with initial results expected at 8 p.m. These primary elections will ultimately shape the political landscape of Maricopa County and determine the leaders who will navigate its rapid growth and election challenges in the coming years.