Rep. Mike Levin issued a statement Wednesday expressing concern over potential plans to close portions of Interstate 5 this weekend amid reports Navy ships will fire live ordnance over the freeway during the Marine Corps’ 250th birthday celebration at Camp Pendleton.
The closure would affect a section between Orange and San Diego counties, cutting off a major artery serving more than 80,000 daily travelers, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Those fears abated after the Marines issued denials following criticism by Levin and Gov. Gavin Newsom.
“The 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps is a moment to be proud — to honor two and a half centuries of valor and excellence,” said Levin, who represents north coastal San Diego and South Orange County. “It deserves to be celebrated in a way worthy of their legacy and consistent with their values: honor, courage, and commitment.
“That’s why I am concerned by reports that portions of Interstate 5 could be closed for several hours in both directions on Friday and Saturday to accommodate events tied to anything partisan or political,” he said.
“Even on a normal weekend, traffic along the I-5 corridor is heavy. Long closures would cause significant congestion and real hardship for residents, businesses, and first responders. I hope any such closures can be minimized.”
The L.A. Times reported the celebration will include a live amphibious assault demonstration, though it’s unclear whether anything will be fired over I-5.
“This would be an absurd show of force, and totally uncalled for during a government shutdown when members of the military cannot even get a paycheck,” Newsom’s Press Office posted on X Wednesday.
“Donald Trump and JD Vance can find money to launch missiles over the I-5 during a government shutdown, but not a dime for Americans’ health care,” Newsom also posted on X.
The event, titled “Sea to Shore – A Review of Amphibious Strength,” is expected to draw 15,000 attendees. Vice President JD Vance is scheduled to attend Saturday and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is set to speak.
Camp Pendleton shared a statement from the Marine Corps late Wednesday that said “all training events will occur on approved training ranges,” not, for instance, over the freeway.
In addition, in advance of the training event and demonstration, a detailed risk assessment was conducted at the base. All participants will be briefed, while medical, fire and emergency responders and equipment will be on site, according to the statement.
Updated 11:15 p.m. Oct. 16, 2025
City News Service contributed to this report.
