Story perspectives

Newsom Slams Trump Over I-5 Closure Amid Protests

10/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Trump administration for a lack of coordination around a military artillery exercise over Interstate 5 on October 18.
The closure of a 17-mile stretch of Interstate 5 caused significant traffic delays.
Marine officials defended the exercise as routine and safe, saying no public highways should have been closed.
The event coincided with nationwide "No Kings" protests, escalating tensions between state and federal authorities.

History

Historical Context

The 34th Infantry Division, reactivated on February 10, 1991, has a history of significant military involvement, including World War II and recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The division's ongoing operations reflect a broader tension between state autonomy and federal military authority, exemplified by California's Interstate 5 disruptions during military exercises and current disputes between Governor Gavin Newsom and the Trump administration over military coordination.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the Trump administration for a lack of coordination around a military artillery exercise over Interstate 5 on October 18.
The closure of a 17-mile stretch of Interstate 5 caused significant traffic delays.
Marine officials defended the exercise as routine and safe, saying no public highways should have been closed.
The event coincided with nationwide "No Kings" protests, escalating tensions between state and federal authorities.

1 / 2