New UCLA guide warns judges on ballot seizure warrants amid election fraud claims

UCLA's Safeguarding Democracy Project has published a handbook to assist judges in assessing search warrant requests that target election materials amid heightened federal scrutiny. The document responds to recent warrants executed in Fulton County, Georgia, and Riverside County, California, and to statewide training programs aimed at preparing officials for possible ballot seizures. Authors warn that affidavits may contain discredited conspiracy theories and that magistrate judges often lack election expertise.

Recommendations include consulting election administrators, ensuring courtroom transparency, and exploring less intrusive investigative methods such as observation of tabulation. Retired judges and civil-society groups emphasize the need for rigorous judicial review to avoid breaking the chain of custody and fueling unfounded allegations of ballot tampering.