california Marine Corps Anniversary Event Draws Fire from Newsom Amid Shutdown
CAMP PENDLETON, CA – A celebration of the marine Corps’ 250th anniversary in California on Saturday ignited a political exchange between Representative Tim Vance and Governor Gavin Newsom, as the event unfolded against the backdrop of a weeks-long federal government shutdown. The event, attended by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, featured remarks emphasizing unity over diversity, a sentiment that drew immediate criticism from the Governor’s office.
The anniversary event comes as thousands of federal workers remain furloughed or work without pay, and as the Pentagon utilizes “unobligated research development testing and evaluation funds” to continue paying troops. The shutdown, now entering its third week, has become a focal point of contention between the White House and Congressional Democrats, with both sides blaming the other for the impasse.
During the celebration, Vance delivered a message from President Donald Trump, acknowledging the shutdown but placing blame on Democrats, specifically senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer. “I bring greetings today from our commander in chief, Donald J. Trump, and he wanted me to tell each and every single one of you that he’s proud of you, that he loves you and that despite the Schumer shutdown, he is going to do everything he can to make sure you get paid exactly as you deserve,” Vance said.
Secretary of Defense Hegseth echoed similar sentiments, arguing against the prioritization of diversity. “I look out at this crowd,I see a lot of different types of faces.The truth is your diversity is not your strength. Never has been,” Hegseth said. “Your strength is in your unity of purpose.”
Governor Newsom’s office swiftly responded, accusing the administration of using a military event as a political platform during a time of hardship for federal employees. A statement released by the Governor’s office characterized the remarks as “tone-deaf” and ”divisive,” especially given the ongoing financial strain on military families affected by the shutdown.
Since President Trump returned to office in January,the Pentagon has reportedly cracked down on diversity initiatives and rolled back efforts to address toxic culture within the military. the Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary marks a critically important milestone for the branch, established November 10, 1775, and the California event was intended as a presentation of support for the Corps and its members. However, the political undertones overshadowed the celebratory nature of the occasion.
