California Governor Gavin Newsom came under renewed scrutiny this weekend after attempting to fact-check a viral video related to ongoing unrest in Los Angeles. The video, originally shared by actor James Woods, showed chaotic scenes including a police car on fire and widespread rioting. Woods’ caption criticized what he called the mischaracterization of recent events by some media outlets, particularly the use of the term “peaceful protest.”
In response, Governor Newsom posted that the video was not from the current protests but instead was taken during the 2020 unrest following the death of George Floyd. While the clarification may have been accurate, it did not have the intended effect. The reaction across social media quickly turned critical, with users pointing out that even if the footage was from a previous incident, it still occurred under Newsom’s leadership, raising further questions about law enforcement preparedness and response strategies during his administration.
One user, former Fox News contributor Kate Hyde, shared the governor’s post and added a satirical remark suggesting that Newsom had inadvertently admitted to long-term failure. Her comment gained traction, further amplifying criticism of the governor’s handling of civil disturbances in California.
“ACTUALLY I’ve been incompetent for years” -Gavin Newsom pic.twitter.com/4ALezjVcHH
— Kate Hyde (@KateHydeNY) June 9, 2025
The situation in Los Angeles has escalated in recent days, prompting President Donald Trump to deploy 2,000 National Guard troops to support local law enforcement. This move has sparked a public disagreement between the President and Governor Newsom. Newsom accused Trump of using federal authority inappropriately, claiming the deployment was not only unnecessary but also potentially unlawful. He stated that the president’s actions could open the door for similar federal interventions in any state, regardless of the wishes of local leaders.
Trump has defended the deployment as a necessary response to growing instability in the city, citing looting, vandalism, and assaults on police officers. In one widely circulated video, protesters are seen burning two American flags while chanting slogans and holding up foreign flags, including the national flag of Mexico. Some participants reportedly wore masks and face coverings, obscuring their identities.
“I like Gavin Newsom. He’s a nice guy, but he’s grossly incompetent and everyone knows it.” – President Trump, on Gavin Newsom‘s handling of, well everything pic.twitter.com/NYg2Zgmb7W
— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) June 9, 2025
Local authorities have also shifted their stance as the protests intensified. Initially described by some officials and news outlets as “mostly peaceful,” the Los Angeles Police Department later declared the situation an “unlawful assembly,” acknowledging that the size and aggression of the crowd had overwhelmed law enforcement resources.
Despite this, Governor Newsom has maintained that local police forces are capable of managing the unrest without federal involvement. He has continued to criticize the Trump administration, claiming that the National Guard’s presence is exacerbating tensions rather than calming them.
While both sides remain at odds over the appropriate response, the events unfolding in Los Angeles have highlighted the complex interplay between local and federal authorities during civil unrest. With large crowds continuing to gather and law enforcement under pressure, the debate over how to maintain public order and constitutional rights remains front and center. As of now, tensions remain high, and officials on both sides are under close public scrutiny.
