Welcome to the ASU Mechanics of Democracy Laboratory
Are you someone who questions election results in Arizona? The ASU Mechanics of Democracy Laboratory is here to address those concerns and restore public trust in the electoral process.
Maricopa County Supervisor Bill Gates, upon his retirement from elected office, will be leading the charge in this initiative. Arizona State University recently announced that Gates will be spearheading research at the new Mechanics of Democracy Laboratory.
Through this role, Gates aims to combat misinformation and misunderstandings surrounding elections while encouraging students to pursue careers in election administration. The MODL was created in response to the distrust in local elections and false allegations against election administrations, offering resources to the public and training students for roles in administering elections.
During the 2020 and 2022 elections in Arizona, Gates and other election officials faced scrutiny and threats as multiple Democrats won high-profile races. Despite this, Maricopa County’s GOP-controlled board of supervisors upheld the results. The need for initiatives like the MODL became apparent as individuals like Gates received threatening messages, highlighting the importance of education and transparency in the electoral process.
UP TO SPEED
What is the Valley?
“The Valley” refers to the Phoenix Metropolitan Area, the largest metropolitan area in the Southwest. It comprises major cities such as Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, and Tempe, among others. The Valley has a combined population of over 4.8 million people, making it the 11th largest metropolitan area in the United States.
Whether a city is in the “East Valley” or “West Valley” is determined by its relation to Phoenix geographically. The region boasts a diverse population and rich cultural heritage.
How big is Maricopa County?
Maricopa County is the fourth largest county in the United States by population, with over 4.4 million residents according to the 2020 Census. Encompassing around 63% of Arizona’s population, Maricopa County is vast, spanning 9,224 square miles—larger than several U.S. states.
The county is home to one of the largest park systems in the nation, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. With its county seat in Phoenix, also the state capital, Maricopa County is a hub of cultural diversity and economic activity.
Named after the Maricopa Native American Tribe, the county holds a significant place in Arizona’s history and continues to play a pivotal role in the state’s growth and development.
