Newsom Accused of Spreading False Claims Ahead of Vance’s Visit

Governor Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) is facing criticism for allegedly spreading misinformation regarding Vice President J.D. Vance’s upcoming visit to Camp Pendleton on Saturday. He made claims suggesting that a demonstration of amphibious capabilities might lead to the closure of Interstate 5 and that U.S. troops would not receive pay.

Following this event, there will be a celebration on November 10 at Del Mar Beach to honor the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps.

Newsom and his team referenced articles sourced anonymously from the far-left outlet Meidas Touch, which claimed, “The White House closes part of I-5 for Vice President J.D. Vance’s Marine Corps show during No Kings protest, sparking chaos, gridlock, and riots amid government shutdown.”

Shortly after the Meidas Touch tweet, Newsom’s press office shared the article, labeling the situation an “unreasonable show of force” and alleging that American troops wouldn’t be compensated during the government shutdown enforced by the Democrats.

However, just hours before the rumors circulated, President Trump directed Army Secretary Pete Hegseth to ensure troops would be paid, even with the shutdown in effect. The White House Office of Management and Budget confirmed that military and federal law enforcement agencies would maintain their pay during this period.

After the article’s dissemination, Newsom also commented, disputing claims regarding I-5 and reinforcing the Marine Corps’s position.

He recently tweeted, “Donald Trump and J.D. Vance think closing I-5 to fire missiles from ships is the way to respect the military,” all the while incorrectly asserting that the military was not being compensated.

In response, the Marine Corps issued a press release clarifying that no highway closures would occur during the events, countering Newsom’s statements.

The Marine Corps noted, “Planned unit training activities will ensure readiness to defend the homeland and protect the nation’s interests abroad for the unprecedented and urgent challenges of today and the coming years.” They added that all training would take place at approved sites and follow established safety protocols, with no public roads or transport routes being affected.

The Marine Corps specified that the capability demonstration will involve land, air, and sea components.

In a statement to Breitbart News, Vance’s press secretary, Taylor Van Kirk, criticized Newsom for spreading false information. She remarked, “Governor Newsom is intentionally spreading fake news to Californians, inciting fear and scoring cheap political points. Vice President Vance is eager to be in California on Saturday to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps with Marines who continue to receive paychecks thanks to President Trump’s hard work despite the Democratic shutdown.”