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Former Arizona Lawmaker Faces Sentencing for Election Fraud

1/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former Arizona lawmaker Austin Smith, 30, is set to be sentenced for using forged signatures on nominating petitions for the 2024 primary election.
Smith pleaded guilty to attempted fraudulent schemes and illegal signing of election petitions, including forging a deceased individual's signature.
He served one term in the Arizona House and resigned from Turning Point Action amid allegations.
His plea deal includes probation, a $5,000 fine, and a five-year ban from public office.
Smith previously claimed the allegations were a Democratic attack while advocating for a review of the 2020 election results.

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Story summary

Former Arizona lawmaker Austin Smith, 30, is set to be sentenced for using forged signatures on nominating petitions for the 2024 primary election.
Smith pleaded guilty to attempted fraudulent schemes and illegal signing of election petitions, including forging a deceased individual's signature.
He served one term in the Arizona House and resigned from Turning Point Action amid allegations.
His plea deal includes probation, a $5,000 fine, and a five-year ban from public office.
Smith previously claimed the allegations were a Democratic attack while advocating for a review of the 2020 election results.