CALIFORNIA — Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Trump administration’s reported plans to stage a military parade in the state during the upcoming “No Kings” protests on October 18.
“Donald Trump and J.D. Vance can find money to launch missiles over the I-5 during a government shutdown, but not a dime for Americans’ health care,” Newsom posted on X.
Newsom’s rebuke came after reports suggested Vice President J.D. Vance would lead a 250th Marine Corps anniversary event in Southern California. The event could involve live missile demonstrations from Navy warships off Camp Pendleton and possibly a partial closure of Interstate 5.
While White House and Marine Corps officials have not confirmed the missile launches, the Marine Corps announced a scheduled live-fire “Amphibious Capabilities Demonstration” at Red Beach near Camp Pendleton.
The press release said the demonstration will feature “integrated Navy and Marine operations across air, land, and sea.”
The Corps added that all training events will be held on “approved training ranges,” follow established safety protocols, and undergo multiple rehearsals. No public highway or training route closures are expected, per the announcement.
Meanwhile, California’s Department of Transportation warned that, if the federal government requests it, Interstate 5 could see closures, and drivers should expect delays across Southern California.
“Should focus on paying their military, lowering grocery prices”
Newsom’s office said it’s still considering whether to authorize freeway shutdowns and stressed the lack of coordination from the federal government as evidence of broader disarray.
“The White House should focus on paying their military, lowering grocery prices, and honoring these soldiers for their service instead of pompous displays of power,” Newsom’s office said.
The “No Kings” protests — previously held in June and elsewhere — are planned statewide on October 18 and are meant to challenge what organizers see as authoritarian policies from the Trump administration.
