This bill proposes updates to the current statutes regarding presidential electors in Arizona. Under the new provisions, if a winning candidate for U.S. President or Vice President dies or withdraws before the meeting of the presidential electors, those electors are required to cast their votes for a successor candidate nominated by the political party of the deceased or withdrawn candidate. This insertion modifies the existing law, which only mandates that electors vote for the candidates who received the highest number of votes in the state.

Additionally, the bill removes the requirement that a presidential elector must "knowingly" refuse to cast their vote to be deemed ineligible for the office. Instead, any refusal to vote will result in the elector's disqualification. The bill also establishes that if an elector is not present at the meeting, their office will be considered vacant. The chairperson of the relevant political party will then appoint a qualified replacement, who must cast the electoral vote as prescribed. These changes aim to clarify the process and ensure that electoral votes are cast in accordance with party nominations in the event of a vacancy.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-212