Governor Newsom Blasts Trump After Shell Detonates in CA

UPDATE: A 155-millimeter artillery shell detonated prematurely over Interstate 5 during a Marine Corps celebration, prompting an urgent backlash from California Governor Gavin Newsom. The incident occurred on August 5, 2023, as the Marine Corps marked its 250th anniversary with a training exercise. No injuries were reported, but the explosion damaged two vehicles, including one associated with Vice President JD Vance.

Newsom took to X, formerly Twitter, immediately following the incident, expressing his outrage at the Trump administration. His press office released a statement highlighting the severity of the situation: “The shrapnel that hit CHP (California Highway Patrol) vehicles over the weekend from Trump and Vance’s military live-munitions demonstration came from this ordnance. It’s no small thing.” A photo of the artillery device was also shared.

“The White House thought it was fine to fly over civilians on a major freeway,” Newsom added, emphasizing the risk posed to the public. He demanded accountability, stating, “Donald Trump and JD Vance put lives at risk to put on a show. If you want to honor our troops, open the government and pay them.”

The controversy erupted as Newsom had previously raised alarms about the training exercise, which included live missile fire. Newsom’s concerns were dismissed by Vance’s office, with communications director William Martin claiming, “The Marine Corps says it’s an established and safe practice.” However, the detonation has raised significant questions about safety protocols during military demonstrations.

In a pointed response, Newsom criticized those who accused him of overreacting when he closed part of the freeway for safety. “You accused the Governor of overreacting when he closed a portion of the freeway to protect the public,” his office stated on X. “And now we learn… live ordinance detonated early, striking a vehicle on a closed portion of the highway during the event. Without a doubt, an apology is owed — to not just Californians, but all Americans.”

The California Highway Patrol confirmed that shrapnel from the explosion impacted one of its vehicles, while a motorcycle in Vance’s security detail was also struck. CHP Border Division Chief Tony Coronado described the event as “an unusual and concerning situation,” underscoring the rarity of live-fire exercises over active freeways. “My foremost responsibility is ensuring the safety of the people of California and the officers who protect them,” Coronado added.

The First Marine Expeditionary Force, which orchestrated the demonstration, is currently investigating the incident. They stated that extensive rehearsals were conducted to ensure safety and success. “Marines fire artillery on Camp Pendleton nearly every week. Indirect weapon systems are designed to fire over the heads of friendly forces to achieve effects on our adversary,” a spokesperson said.

As this story develops, all eyes remain on the Marine Corps and the White House regarding their response to the growing concerns surrounding this dangerous incident. The fallout from the artillery blast continues to reverberate, raising serious questions about the safety of military exercises in populated areas.

Stay tuned as more information becomes available.