Billy Cloud Appointed Cochise County Recorder

Billy Cloud, a Republican with a background in law enforcement and government roles, has been appointed as the new recorder for Cochise County, Arizona, succeeding David Stevens, who resigned shortly after being sworn in for a third term. Cloud, who was chosen over four other candidates, is expected to serve through 2026 and was selected by the Cochise County Board of Supervisors, which required a Republican replacement by law. The board sought a candidate capable of managing the complexities of the position, given the county's recent election disputes and controversies stemming from conspiracy theories. Cloud's diverse experience includes roles in the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the Arizona Legislature, and the Arizona Department of Economic Security. The board emphasized the need for a candidate who could uphold integrity and efficiency in the recorder's office, which handles voter registration and real estate document processing. Two supervisors on the board have faced legal issues for delaying the certification of the county's 2022 midterm election results.