Fact Check: California Governor Gavin Newsom wants violence to escalate during confrontations.

Fact Check: "California Governor Gavin Newsom wants violence to escalate during confrontations."

What We Know

The claim that California Governor Gavin Newsom wants violence to escalate during confrontations is unfounded and misrepresents his statements and actions. In a recent address, Newsom condemned the militarization of Los Angeles by federal forces under President Trump, describing it as "authoritarianism" and a dangerous escalation of tensions in the community (source-2). He emphasized the importance of peaceful protests and urged citizens to exercise their rights without resorting to violence, stating, "Don't give them one. Never use violence. Speak out peacefully" (source-1).

In his speech, Newsom detailed how federal actions, including the deployment of National Guard troops, exacerbated an already tense situation, leading to violence that he attributed to the federal response rather than the protests themselves. He stated, "If you incite violence or destroy our communities, you are going to be held accountable" (source-4).

Analysis

The assertion that Newsom desires violence is contradicted by the content of his speeches and public statements. Throughout his address, he called for peaceful action and criticized the federal government's approach as unnecessarily provocative. Newsom's rhetoric was focused on accountability for those who engage in violence, rather than inciting it himself. He explicitly stated that criminal behavior would not be tolerated and that those who incite violence would face consequences (source-2).

The sources used to support the claim about Newsom's alleged desire for violence lack credibility and context. For instance, a press release from the California Governor's office highlighted that the President's actions could lead to violent confrontations, but this was framed as a warning against the potential for violence rather than an endorsement of it (source-3). Furthermore, Newsom's call for peaceful protests aligns with democratic principles and the rights of citizens to assemble and express dissent without violence.

Conclusion

Verdict: False. The claim that Governor Gavin Newsom wants violence to escalate during confrontations is not supported by evidence. Instead, his public statements advocate for peaceful protest and condemn violence, particularly in the context of federal actions that he believes provoke unrest. Newsom's focus is on accountability for violence and the importance of maintaining peace in the community.

Fact Check: California Governor Gavin Newsom wants violence to escalate during confrontations.