Citing a lack of federal investment, California governor Gavin Newsom stated “California can either wait for the next crisis, or we can build the kind of defenses this moment demands. We are choosing to build.”

In politically charged environments where unifying goals are not present, defensive postures become fragmented out of necessity. California, once again, takes a forward-looking leadership role to establish cybersecurity controls to protect its critical infrastructure and citizens. We have seen this in the past with protective privacy regulations, innovative investigation processes, and validated criminal procedures. AI is the next big mountain that will impact the security, safety, privacy, and trust of digital systems and information.

California will lead the way. There may be setbacks, but something is needed to push forward for the protection and benefits of digital innovation. California has the economy, talent, forethought, and grit to do what is needed and carve a path for other states to follow. Let’s fuel AI innovation for its great advantages while proactively managing the risks to acceptable levels.

Official announcement and details: https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/08/10/governor-newsom-announces-new-ai-cyber-defense-program-to-protect-californias-critical-infrastructure/