In a startling display of military might, a 17-mile stretch of Interstate 5 in California was shut down on Saturday for a Marine Corps artillery demonstration, sparking fierce criticism from Governor Gavin Newsom.
According to the Daily Mail, the event, tied to the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary, led to massive traffic delays, public frustration, and a heated clash between state and federal leaders over safety and intent.
The controversy began when the Trump administration announced plans for a military exercise involving artillery fire over Interstate 5, a major highway connecting Los Angeles and San Diego. This demonstration was intended to mark the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary with a show of force from Camp Pendleton. Governor Newsom quickly condemned the plan as hazardous, prompting the closure of the highway to protect motorists.
On Saturday, the 17-mile closure of Interstate 5 resulted in severe traffic jams, with delays stretching up to an hour. Drivers were left stranded in long lines, unable to navigate the gridlock as the military event unfolded. Amtrak also suspended its Pacific Surfliner train service near the affected area for the day.
To ensure safety, the Marine Corps conducted a test firing of M777 Howitzers at a nearby beach on Friday evening. Gregory Dreibelbis, a spokesman for the 1st Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Pendleton, described the practice as an “established and safe” protocol. He noted that such exercises historically occur without needing to close the highway, using designated firing and impact zones.
The Saturday event included more than just artillery fire, featuring controlled demolitions and large amphibious assault vehicles known as Navy Landing Craft Air Cushions. Troops also practiced sea-to-land attack maneuvers as part of the demonstration. The Federal Aviation Administration closed airspace over the region throughout the afternoon to accommodate the activities.
Governor Newsom sharply criticized the event, calling it “profoundly absurd” and a potential danger to Californians. He argued that it was “a show of force that could put Californians directly in harm’s way.” His office further stated that it was “not safe for people to drive on a major freeway at high speeds directly under LIVE MUNITIONS.”
Adding to the controversy, Newsom suggested the timing of the event coincided suspiciously with anti-Trump “No Kings” protests held on the same day. He accused the administration of using the military to intimidate dissenters, stating, “Using our military to intimidate people you disagree with isn’t strength — it’s reckless, it’s disrespectful, and it’s beneath the office the president holds.” His office also criticized the White House for poor communication and endangering the public while attempting to shift blame to the governor.
The White House maintained that the artillery fire from Camp Pendleton was safe and part of routine training. William Martin, communications director for Vice President JD Vance, dismissed Newsom’s concerns, saying, “Gavin Newsom wants people to think this exercise is dangerous.” Martin added that the Marine Corps considers such activities standard and essential for maintaining a lethal fighting force.
Local leaders were equally frustrated by the lack of coordination surrounding the event. Mark Enmeier, a San Clemente City Councilmember, said the closure “came completely out of the blue” and that he “was not informed of it.” He emphasized that there was “no coordination with any local officials on this whatsoever.”
The public also voiced discontent over the disruption caused by the highway closure and military event. Joey Abi-Loutfi, a local restaurant owner, sarcastically remarked to the LA Times, “What a great use of funding.” John McKean, Oceanside’s assistant police chief, tried to reassure residents, explaining that while the booms would be loud for about 15 to 20 minutes, there was no risk of explosives hitting drivers.
Vice President JD Vance was present at the demonstration, addressing approximately 15,000 servicemen. In his speech, he praised the Marines’ “warrior spirit,” emphasizing its enduring importance. He also assured the troops that, despite budget challenges, President Trump would ensure they are “paid exactly as you deserve.”
The clash between Newsom and the Trump administration has ignited a broader debate over the balance between military training and public safety. While federal officials insist the event was secure and routine, state and local leaders argue it posed unnecessary risks. The timing, aligned with protests, has further fueled speculation about political motivations behind the display.
For many Californians, the highway closure and resulting chaos left a lasting impression of frustration. The incident has raised questions about how such large-scale military events are planned and communicated to the public. As tensions between state and federal authorities persist, residents are left hoping for better coordination in the future.