Contra Costa County's top elections official, district attorney and sheriff issued a joint statement saying they are working together so every voter can cast a ballot safely in the Nov. 3 general election, according to the county's press release, published by Contra Costa News and the Contra Costa Herald.
Why it matters: The statement comes as voting gets underway, and officials want residents to feel confident using any voting method.
What the law says
The county pointed to the state's Peace Act (AB 2642), signed in September 2024. It bans intimidation and threats at the polls in all 58 counties and treats the presence of a firearm, or even a replica, at a polling place as unlawful intimidation. It also lets voters and election workers sue anyone who tries to intimidate or coerce them.
New laws signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom this September make it a felony to tamper with ballots, election records or voting equipment, and add protections against deepfakes and deception, the release said.
The county says that means every ballot, whether cast at a polling place, put in a drop box or mailed, is protected until the final count.
What officials said
"We partner closely with local law enforcement to ensure that all Contra Costa Voters can feel confident voting with their preferred method either by drop box, through the post office, or in-person," said Kristin B. Connelly, the county Clerk-Recorder and Registrar of Voters.
"Your vote is your voice, and we will protect it," said District Attorney Diana Becton.
Sheriff David Livingston said his office is working with law enforcement partners "to ensure this election is safe."
How to vote
Voting information is on the county elections website, contracostavote.gov. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.