Fact Check: Gavin Newsom stated that it is critical for Americans to engage in visible protest against the military parade planned by Trump in Washington, D.C. on October 2023.

Fact Check: Gavin Newsom Urges Protest Against Trump's Military Parade

What We Know

Gavin Newsom, the Governor of California, made statements regarding President Trump's military parade scheduled for October 2023. In a televised address, Newsom characterized the situation as a "perilous moment" for democracy, urging Americans to stand up against what he described as authoritarian actions by Trump, particularly in light of the president's decision to deploy military forces to immigration protests in Los Angeles (source-2). He emphasized the need for public engagement and protest against these actions, which he believes threaten democratic norms (source-2).

The military parade, which coincided with the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, was marked by significant protests across the country, with demonstrators expressing their opposition to Trump's use of military power for domestic purposes (source-1). Newsom's comments were part of a broader critique of Trump's administration, which he accused of inflaming tensions and undermining democratic principles (source-2).

Analysis

The claim that Gavin Newsom stated it is critical for Americans to engage in visible protest against Trump's military parade is partially true. Newsom did indeed call for public action against Trump's militarization and the perceived authoritarianism of his administration, framing the moment as a critical juncture for democracy (source-2). However, the specific phrasing of "visible protest against the military parade" is not directly quoted from his speeches or statements. Instead, his comments were more broadly focused on the implications of Trump's actions regarding military deployment and their impact on democratic norms.

The protests against the military parade, organized under the slogan “No Kings,” were a significant part of the event, with thousands participating nationwide (source-1). While Newsom's call to action aligns with the sentiments expressed by protesters, it is essential to note that he did not explicitly mention the parade in the context of a call for visible protest; rather, he spoke more generally about the need to resist authoritarianism.

In terms of source reliability, the articles referenced come from reputable news organizations such as The New York Times and NBC News, which are known for their journalistic standards. However, as with any political discourse, there may be inherent biases in the framing of Newsom's statements and the context surrounding the protests.

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim is Partially True. Gavin Newsom did urge Americans to engage against Trump's actions, which he views as authoritarian, and he highlighted the importance of public protest. However, the specific assertion that he called for visible protest against the military parade is not directly supported by his statements. Instead, his remarks were part of a broader critique of Trump's militarization and its implications for democracy.

Sources

1. Live Updates: Trump's Military Parade to Go Ahead Amid Protests and ...
2. Newsom Says Trump Is Destroying U.S. Democracy ...
3. Gavin Newsom Just Absolutely Dragged Trump's Military Parade, And Trump ...
4. Newsom rips Trump's military parade as 'vulgar display of ...
5. Trump Branded "Small" By Gavin Newsom In Attack Against Military Parade
6. Military parade barrels through DC as 'No Kings' protesters ...
7. Trump military parade live updates: D.C. onlookers line streets; 'No ...
8. Trump military parade marks Army's 250th anniversary ...