Gavin Newsom Accuses Trump Administration of Spreading Fake Protest Images

California Governor Gavin Newsom has launched a fierce criticism of the Trump administration, accusing it of spreading misleading and outdated footage of recent Los Angeles protests to justify military intervention.

An official account linked to the Department of Defense posted a video on social media showing LAPD vehicles engulfed in flames. While the footage was framed as evidence of current unrest, fact-checkers have confirmed it dates back to the 2020 George Floyd protests.

“This isn't just misinformation—this is a propaganda campaign,” Newsom’s office stated. “They’re using old footage to justify a military occupation that was never approved by the state.”

Trump’s Federal Deployment Under Scrutiny

Following recent ICE operations in Los Angeles, the federal government deployed thousands of National Guard troops and Marines to the city—without the governor's consent. Trump defended the move as necessary to prevent further violence, but California officials argue the decision oversteps federal authority and inflames tensions.

A spokesperson for the Department of Defense defended the administration’s response, claiming Trump was acting to protect federal assets in the face of state inaction.

Old Footage, New Agenda

The Department’s viral video included scenes of LAPD patrol cars labeled 504 and 658—vehicles that have previously appeared in archived 2020 news footage. Additional viral clips being shared widely have also proven to be unrelated to the current protests. One video of a Jeep being set on fire, for instance, was originally filmed in March 2024. Another clip of a store owner being attacked was traced back to a separate incident in Anaheim later that year.

Critics say these recycled images are being used strategically to justify excessive force and mislead the public.

On the Ground in L.A.

Although some recent protests have led to isolated incidents of property damage and clashes with law enforcement, many demonstrations remain peaceful. Protesters are voicing concerns over immigration policy, federal overreach, and the militarization of their communities.

Local media has reported a mix of nonviolent marches and moments of escalation, with incidents of arson, vandalism, and looting. Protesters have also been seen confronting police with fireworks, scooters, and debris on blocked highways.

Newsom’s team issued a cautionary message: “Right-wing accounts are recycling old chaos to justify today’s crackdown. Don’t fall for it.”

A Nation on Edge

A major military parade is set to take place in Washington, D.C. this weekend, coinciding with the president’s birthday and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army. In response, more than 1,800 protests have been planned nationwide under the “No Kings” banner.

Trump has warned of a forceful response to any disruption in the capital. As cities across the country brace for a volatile weekend, the national debate over free speech, federal authority, and truth itself continues to intensify.