Newsom Criticizes Highway Closure Amid Marine Corps Celebration
California Governor Gavin Newsom has taken aim at the Trump administration for its decision to close certain segments of interstate highways in the state
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This Saturday marks the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps, which will be observed at Camp Pendleton’s Red Beach. Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of the Army Pete Hegseth are leading a live-fire demonstration, but the Marine Corps has noted that this event is fully approved and will adhere to all safety protocols. Importantly, they confirmed that highways and public transport won’t be disrupted.
Despite this, Newsom announced the closure of portions of Interstate 5 and warned drivers to anticipate delays due to the administration’s plans.
In response, Vance’s press secretary, Taylor Van Kirk, accused Newsom of spreading misinformation to create panic and gain political leverage. Van Kirk emphasized that Vice President Vance looks forward to participating in the Marine Corps celebration, highlighting that Marines continue to receive pay thanks to Trump’s efforts amid a Democratic-led shutdown.
This is an absurd show of force and completely unnecessary during a government shutdown when military personnel are not even getting paid.
— Governor Newsom Press Office (@GovPressOffice) October 15, 2025
Thousands are expected to attend the anniversary event, but Newsom has amplified concerns about a planned “vanity parade” that could lead to the closure of Interstate 5. He stated that Trump and Vance’s approach to missile launches from ships disrespects the military, repeating questionable media reports.
By the time the event arrived, Newsom’s office reiterated claims that the demonstration posed risks to life and could distract drivers, thus justifying the highway closure.
Vice President Vance and his deputy, Usha, arrive at the scene as the demonstration begins soon.
— Hailey Grace Gomez (@haileyggomez) October 18, 2025
Following Newsom’s statements, the White House clarified that neither the military nor the Marines had requested a highway closure, asserting that there were no identified safety concerns regarding the event.
Republican Congressman Darrell Issa criticized Newsom’s actions, suggesting they were a misguided publicity stunt aimed at disrupting the 250th anniversary celebration while pointing out that Newsom has never served in the military.
Newsom’s office has not commented further on the situation.
