In Bisbee, Arizona, a Republican with a background in law enforcement and legislative roles has been chosen to take over an election office position that became vacant following the resignation of a predecessor. Billy Cloud was appointed on Tuesday by officials in Cochise County to fill the role of county recorder. This comes in the wake of former recorder David Stevens’ announcement of his resignation, just days after beginning another term. Stevens’ resignation is scheduled to take effect on February 28.

Cloud brings considerable experience to his new position, having served as an officer with the Arizona Department of Public Safety and as the police chief in both Tombstone and Patagonia. He has also held the position of sergeant at arms in the Arizona House, in addition to managing financial investigations in the adult protective services division of the Arizona Department of Economic Security.

Stevens, who had recently been inaugurated for his third consecutive term, stated that his decision to resign was driven by a need to focus on his family and health. His exit comes amidst a turbulent backdrop in Cochise County, where some local officials have shown support for controversial election practices influenced by conspiracy theories that were propagated following the 2020 presidential election.

Furthermore, the scenario within the county has been marred by legal issues involving two members of the Cochise County Board of Supervisors. Both officials faced criminal charges for their actions in delaying the certification of the 2022 midterm election results in the county. One of the supervisors has already entered a guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge and received a sentence that includes probation, while the other has denied the accusations and is preparing for trial.