MEET STEPHEN RICHER
Stephen is a lifelong conservative who has spent years working at conservative organizations, including the American Enterprise Institute and The Federalist Society, to advance conservative ideas. Stephen believes that free markets, individual rights, a constitutional democracy, and the rule of law are critical to societal success.
In January 2021, Stephen took office as Maricopa County Recorder after defeating the Democratic incumbent Adrian Fontes (who later became Secretary of State).
After Stephen’s first year in office, The Arizona Republic named him “Arizonan of the Year” and The Phoenix New Times awarded him “Republican of the Year.” And in 2023, the Arizona Capitol Times awarded Stephen “Leader of the Year.”
Stephen is one of the hardest working elected officials in Arizona. He has repeatedly been called the “most accessible politician” and “most transparent election official.”
As a result of his commitment to conservatism and his accomplishments while in office, Stephen has won the endorsements of Arizona leaders like Governor Doug Ducey, Governor Jan Brewer, and Recorder Helen Purcell – the longest serving Recorder in Arizona’s history.
Prior to his election, Stephen worked as a businessperson and attorney.
Stephen and his wife met while students at The University of Chicago Law School. They live in South Phoenix.
MEET STEPHEN RICHER
Stephen lives each day with gratitude, being thankful for a life full of remarkable experiences. Growing up in Utah, a state he considers one of the most beautiful in the country, he had the opportunity to indulge in various sports and immerse himself in the captivating world of fantasy books. It was during law school that he crossed paths with his eventual wife, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey together. Stephen also cherishes the unwavering support of his four loving parents.
After completing his education, Stephen embarked on a path that led him to vibrant cities such as Washington D.C., Chicago, New Orleans, and Hermosillo, Mexico. However, it was in Arizona that he found a deep connection and a place where he and his family truly belong.
Stephen’s professional life took an exciting turn when he was elected Maricopa County Recorder in 2020. Winning the race with a narrow margin, he now collaborates with dedicated public servants, working tirelessly to protect and uphold two essential American rights: the right to own property and the right to vote.
While Stephen had previously worked in law, business, and at prestigious think tanks in Washington D.C., none of those experiences compared to the profound sense of purpose and mission he discovered within the Recorder’s Office. The opportunity to work on matters that truly matter to the people of Maricopa County fills him with a sense of fulfillment that he had never before experienced.
Stephen’s dedication to meaningful causes has not gone unnoticed. The Arizona Republic honored him as “Arizonan of the Year, 2021,” while The Phoenix New Times recognized him as “Republican Politician of the Year, 2021.” In addition, the Maricopa County Bar Association named him “Public Lawyer of the Year, 2022.”
Stephen is looking forward to winning re-election and serving as Recorder for four more years. He will not run again after completing two terms. Regardless of the number of terms he serves, he remains steadfast in his commitment to leaving a positive impact on the Recorder’s office, striving to make it better, more secure, and more efficient during his tenure.
Stephen is immensely grateful for the opportunities he has been given and extends his heartfelt thanks to all who have been part of his remarkable journey.