Governor Newsom Condemns Live Fire Demonstration Over I-5

SAN DIEGO, Calif. – Governor Gavin Newsom expressed strong concerns today regarding a live fire demonstration scheduled to take place at Camp Pendleton, which includes firing live artillery over the busy I-5 freeway. The event is set for Saturday, October 18, as part of a celebration for the Marine Corps‘ 250th anniversary.

Newsom stated, “The President is putting his ego over responsibility with this disregard for public safety. Firing live rounds over a busy highway isn’t just wrong — it’s dangerous.” He added that using military exercises to intimidate citizens is reckless and not a display of strength.

The announcement comes after the U.S. Marine Corps confirmed that live-fire exercises would occur at Camp Pendleton. They initially indicated that no live firing would be conducted over the freeway. However, on Friday, event organizers requested signage for drivers announcing, “Overhead fire in progress,” raising safety concerns among state officials.

The live fire activities are now scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m. today, prompting the California Highway Patrol to recommend temporarily closing a section of I-5 due to safety risks, including loud explosions that could distract drivers. I-5 serves as a critical artery, with over 80,000 travelers daily and significant freight traffic.

Traffic experts warn that closures could lead to severe delays. Motorists are advised to check real-time traffic updates before traveling through the affected region.

Newsom, responding to federal officials, criticized the lack of coordination with state and local leaders regarding safety measures for the demonstration. He underscored the importance of ensuring public safety amid growing tension between California officials and the Trump administration.

The demonstration, also featuring Vice President JD Vance, will be broadcast nationally by the White House. In light of potential disruptions from protests planned across California on the same day, Newsom urged participants to demonstrate peacefully, stressing the importance of safety during these events.