Maricopa County Welcomes New Communications Director with Decades of Experience
In a significant appointment, Maricopa County has introduced C.J. Karamargin as its new Director of Communications. Karamargin, who embarked on his journey with the county at the start of the week, brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career in journalism and political communications spanning over 30 years.
County Manager Jen Pokorski expressed confidence in Karamargin’s capabilities, stating, “C.J. has the right experience and temperament for the job. He knows how to communicate complex issues clearly, build relationships with the media, and help residents understand the work of their government.” Pokorski further emphasized the value of Karamargin’s bipartisan experience as a significant advantage for the county.
As the new Director, Karamargin is set to be a key spokesperson for Maricopa County’s leadership, including its elected Board of Supervisors. He will head the central Office of Communications, serving the fourth most populous county in the United States.
Karamargin shared his enthusiasm about his new role, remarking, “I’ve been impressed with the way Maricopa County communicates with its residents and with members of the media for many years. I’m excited to expand on the great work that’s already being done to share information about the county’s award-winning programs and services. And I look forward to working with the Chair’s Office and the entire Board of Supervisors to ensure Maricopa County is recognized as a leader in innovative and efficient government.”
Karamargin’s extensive resume includes serving as a senior advisor to U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani and previously as his district director. From late 2020 to 2022, he was the communications director for Arizona Governor Doug Ducey. His political communication roles extend further back, having worked with U.S. Rep. and later Sen. Martha McSally from 2015 to 2018.
Prior to his political roles, Karamargin was the Executive Director for Public Information and Media Relations at Pima Community College between 2011 and 2015. His journalism career spanned 15 years, taking him across Idaho, Massachusetts, and Washington D.C., before settling in Tucson, where he covered politics for the Arizona Daily Star and Tucson Citizen. It was during this time that he met Gabrielle Giffords, eventually serving as her communications director from 2007 to 2011, notably managing communications during the aftermath of the tragic shooting incident involving Giffords.
For any communications inquiries, C.J. Karamargin can be reached via email at cj.karamargin@maricopa.gov.
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