California Governor Gavin Newsom signed laws Wednesday designed to protect workers from artificial intelligence threats, including bans on employers using AI to predict emotional states through biometric data, requirements to notify workers of AI-driven mass layoffs, and prohibitions on AI-based firing decisions. Newsom also issued an executive order requiring state agencies to use the term "artificial intelligence" rather than "super intelligence," directly countering Trump's recent directive to US diplomats. These measures represent California taking a leading role in worker protection as AI reshapes the workplace, particularly as Newsom sharply criticised the federal government under Trump for failing to pass comprehensive AI regulations whilst tech leaders claim they will self-police development.

Beyond AI protections, Newsom signed a law establishing a tax credit programme to help news organisations hire and retain journalists, and condemned Trump's treatment of the press and barring of news organisations from the White House. On broader political matters, Newsom stated that Democrats must retake control of the House to ensure free and fair elections in 2028, whilst remaining non-committal about his own presidential ambitions despite speculation he might run. The announcements came on Newsom's final day to sign bills before leaving office in January, and he left the door open for a special legislative session to further tackle AI oversight.