As the Marine Corps prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary with a grand event on Saturday, Vice President JD Vance’s campaign has accused California Governor Gavin Newsom of spreading ‘Fake News’ by falsely claiming the federal government plans to shut down the I-5 highway for a military spectacle. The accusation came as Newsom retweeted a post from the left-leaning MeidasTouch outlet, which alleged that the White House was planning to block major traffic routes for the event, sparking concerns over the impact on local commuters and the perception of prioritizing high-profile functions over public infrastructure.
Vance’s communications team has sharply criticized Newsom’s post, dismissing it as a political attempt to divert attention from broader issues related to military support and public spending. William Martin, a special assistant to the president and communications director for the vice president, tweeted that the claim of highway closures is unfounded and that the Marine Corps explicitly stated no public highways would be affected. The team also highlighted that President Trump’s administration has ensured troops continue to be paid despite Democratic efforts to cut their salaries, framing the situation as a win for military supporters.
Newsom’s office has responded by stating that the original plan to close the I-5 was withdrawn, and they expressed relief that the decision was reversed. In a statement to Fox News Digital, Newsom’s spokesperson emphasized that the White House has now pledged to use the same common sense to address the ongoing federal government shutdown. This remark further intensified the back-and-forth between the two sides, with both accusing each other of engaging in political gamesmanship over a military honor event.
The incident, which has drawn attention from multiple political figures, underscores the complex interplay between public infrastructure, military commemorations, and political messaging. War Secretary Pete Hegseth, Navy Secretary John Phelan, and Marine Corps Commandant General Eric Smith are also scheduled to attend the event, signaling its significance as a key moment for national military pride and unity. As tensions escalate, the event is expected to be a focal point for broader debates about the role of government in supporting both military and public interests.