Does arizona count mail in ballots first

In Arizona, mail-in ballots are not counted first. Instead, the state uses a process called "post-election audit" to verify the accuracy of the election results.

Here's how it works:

1. On Election Day, voters can cast their ballots in person at polling stations or by mail.
2. After the polls close, election officials count the ballots cast in person at the polling stations.
3. Mail-in ballots are then counted, but not before a random sample of 5% of the mail-in ballots is selected for a post-election audit.
4. The post-election audit is conducted to verify the accuracy of the election results. This involves comparing the results of the random sample of mail-in ballots with the results of the in-person voting.
5. If the audit finds any discrepancies or errors, election officials may re-count the affected ballots or investigate further to ensure the accuracy of the results.
6. Once the post-election audit is complete, the final election results are certified by the county recorders and the Arizona Secretary of State.

It's worth noting that Arizona has a reputation for being a battleground state in presidential elections, and the state's election process has been the subject of controversy in the past. However, the state's post-election audit process is designed to ensure the accuracy and integrity of the election results.