William Gates

William Gates is a Professor of Practice at Arizona State University's Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions and Director of the ASU Mechanics of Democracy Laboratory. He concurrently serves as a Maricopa County Board of Supervisors member since 2016, chairing in 2019 and 2022. Previously, he was a Phoenix City Council member (2009–2016) and practiced law for 27 years.

Education:

• J.D., Harvard Law School
• B.S., Economics and Political Science, Drake University

Research Interests: Focuses on democratic processes, electoral integrity, and public governance. His work addresses modern challenges in election administration and civic participation, informed by his legal and political career.

Awards:

• Arizonan of the Year (2021)
• Joseph E. Stevens Public Service Award (2022)
• Ed Pastor Public Servant Award (2023)
• Unsung Hero of Democracy (2024)

Teaching & Leadership: Teaches courses like 'Public Serv & Ameri Democracy' at ASU. His advocacy includes reorganizing Maricopa County's Elections Department and managing high-stakes election counts in 2022. Leads the Mechanics of Democracy Lab to study voting systems and public trust.