PHOENIX, AZ — Democracy Defense Project Arizona board members Governor Jan Brewer, Congressman Matt Salmon, former State Rep. Daniel Hernandez and Yuma County Supervisor Jonathan Lines issued the following statement regarding the rhetoric used in the recent Prop 50 ad in California featuring President Obama and Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi:
“The Arizona Board Members of the Democracy Defense Project condemn recent remarks by President Obama and Congresswoman Pelosi suggesting that Republicans are seeking to ‘rig’ future elections through redistricting.
“Such rhetoric is deeply irresponsible and undermines the very democratic values we all seek to protect. Accusing one political party of attempting to “steal” or “rig” elections without evidence is no different from the baseless claims that have eroded trust in our electoral system in recent years. Leveraging the same divisive language to question the integrity of future elections, especially before a single ballot is cast, only serves to deepen public cynicism and weaken faith in our democratic process.
“The Democracy Defense Project exists to uphold election integrity and strengthen democracy by promoting transparency, safety, security, and validity in every election. We believe that restoring public trust begins with responsible leadership and measured words. Regardless of political affiliation, all Americans must commit to the shared goal of ensuring elections that are free, fair, and trusted by all.
“We call on all public officials, both past and present, to refrain from statements that cast doubt on the legitimacy of our democratic institutions. The health of our Republic depends on confidence in the election process, not partisan suspicion of it.”
Published: Oct 29, 2025
