New legal protections for the state's electoral process took effect via executive signature on Sept. 19 to stop the unauthorized seizure of votes. Gavin Newsom signed 13 laws creating felony penalties for interfering with ballots, voting equipment, and the chain of custody ahead of the November election. The package specifically strengthens defenses for vote-by-mail systems and voting hardware.

Newsom accused Donald Trump of seeking to rig the upcoming vote before any ballots are cast and stated that election safeguards can no longer be taken for granted. The measures aim to prevent federal officials or other individuals from undermining California's voting systems and the overall integrity of the process.