JD Vance Defends Artillery Training Amid No Kings Protests

A spokesperson for Vice President JD Vance has defended the Trump administration’s decision to conduct live artillery training near a major California freeway on Saturday, coinciding with the nationwide No Kings protests. This plan has drawn criticism from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who labeled the artillery exercise as inappropriate, particularly given the timing of the protests.

Reports surfaced earlier this week indicating that Marines stationed at Camp Pendleton, located near San Diego, intended to fire artillery shells as part of a routine training exercise and to celebrate the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday. Newsom’s office expressed concerns about the operation, stating that if the reports were accurate, it would not be “the right way to go about” honoring the Marines’ anniversary.

On Saturday, the New York Times confirmed the planned artillery exercise. In a statement, Newsom condemned the initiative, describing it as a “profoundly absurd show of force that could put Californians directly in harm’s way.” He emphasized that using military resources to intimidate dissenters undermines the strength of the office he holds, calling it “reckless” and “disrespectful.”

Despite the backlash, William Martin, Vance’s communications director, countered Newsom’s criticisms. Martin stated, “Gavin Newsom wants people to think this exercise is dangerous; the Marine Corps says it’s an established and safe practice.” He further challenged Newsom’s stance, suggesting that if the governor opposes the military training exercises, he should express his views publicly.

The planned exercise has raised questions about the appropriateness of military displays in civilian contexts, especially during a time of social unrest. As tensions around the No Kings protests continue, the implications of such military exercises may spark further debate on the balance between national security and public safety.

Officials from the Marine Corps have maintained that these exercises are critical for ensuring that the armed forces remain prepared and effective. They have reiterated their commitment to safety and established training protocols, emphasizing that live-fire exercises are a standard part of military readiness.

As the situation unfolds, both sides of the debate continue to present their arguments, reflecting broader discussions about military presence in civilian life and the responsibilities of leadership during contentious times.