The MeidasTouch Podcast Summary: "CA Governor Gavin Newsom Responds to Trump Deploying Marines"

Podcast Information:

• Title: The MeidasTouch Podcast
• Host/Authors: Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas of the MeidasTouch Network
• Episode Title: CA Governor Gavin Newsom Responds to Trump Deploying Marines
• Release Date: June 10, 2025

Introduction

In this pivotal episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, the hosts engage in a heated and in-depth discussion with California Governor Gavin Newsom. The central focus revolves around President Donald Trump's controversial decision to deploy approximately 700 active-duty Marines from Camp Pendleton to Los Angeles. This move, intended to address increased threats to federal law enforcement officers in federal buildings, has sparked significant debate and criticism from Governor Newsom, who challenges the legitimacy and efficiency of the deployment.

Governor Gavin Newsom's Response to Marine Deployment

Initial Critique of Deployment Strategy

Governor Newsom vehemently opposes the deployment, labeling it as "complete nonsense" and "Orwellian," suggesting that it represents a "manufactured crisis" initiated by President Trump. He underscores the inefficiency of the deployment, highlighting that out of the 2,000 National Guardsmen initially deployed, only 300 were operationalized, leaving 1,700 unused and idle.

Governor Newsom (01:53): "Governor, it's just complete nonsense. It's Orwellian. It's a manufactured crisis."

Mismanagement and Operational Inefficiency

Newsom points to the logistical failures accompanying the deployment, such as National Guardsmen sleeping on the floor without adequate provisions. He criticizes the lack of coordination, noting that despite deploying thousands, the majority remain unutilized, which not only squanders resources but also creates chaos and hampers ongoing state initiatives like wildfire management.

Governor Newsom (03:19): "You're looking at chaos. You're looking at incompetency."

Impact on Local Law Enforcement and Public Safety

The Governor emphasizes that the deployment forces local law enforcement to divert critical resources to protect the National Guard themselves, thereby undermining their ability to maintain public safety during emergencies like wildfires and fentanyl interdiction efforts.

Governor Newsom (04:00): "They were protecting public safety at key checkpoints all throughout the state."

Conflict with the Trump Administration

Lack of Communication and Coordination

Governor Newsom accuses the Trump administration of poor communication, stating that he was largely informed about the deployment through social media and Trump's press conferences rather than official channels. He contrasts this with previous instances where state governors, like Kristi Noem, publicly condemned federal overreach, only to witness similar patterns of mismanagement.

Governor Newsom (06:02): "There were no coordination, no capacity to engage in a rational deployment strategy."

Personal Attack and Threats from President Trump

The conversation takes a personal turn as Host Brett Meiselas highlights Trump's public statements threatening the arrest of Governor Newsom. Newsom expresses shock and dismay at hearing such threats from the President, describing it as unprecedented and unbecoming of the leader of the United States.

Governor Newsom (07:51): "I've never thought... I'd hear those words uttered from the president of the United States, threatening the arrest... of a political opponent."

Erosion of Democratic Principles

Governor Newsom discusses the broader implications of Trump's actions, suggesting they signify an erosion of the rule of law and democratic checks and balances. He warns that these tactics could set a dangerous precedent nationwide, jeopardizing the integrity of governmental institutions.

Governor Newsom (07:51): "This is about the erosion of the rule of law. This is about a system of checks and balances."

Public and Personal Repercussions

Impact on Communities and Families

Newsom details the tangible effects of the deployment on everyday Californians, including disruptions to community events like graduations and instilling fear among families, particularly those with mixed immigration statuses.

Governor Newsom (10:13): "Kids are not going in their own graduations. Families, grandparents here legally mixed status families in some cases scared to death to go to a graduation."

Military Morale and Welfare

Expressing deep concern for the welfare of the military personnel involved, Governor Newsom criticizes the treatment of Marines and National Guardsmen, who are being used as pawns in political disputes, and calls for their return to essential duties.

Governor Newsom (13:47): "Let our military go home. The absurdity of threatening the people of the United States of America with their own military."

Closing Remarks and Calls to Action

Governor Newsom's Urgent Appeal

In his concluding statements, Governor Newsom implores President Trump to rescind the deployment orders, emphasizing the illegality and immorality of using the military in domestic affairs. He advocates for unity across political lines to restore order and uphold democratic values.

Governor Newsom (13:51): "Stand back. Rescind this absurd, illegal and immoral order. Let our military go home."

Hosts' Final Thoughts

The hosts reiterate the gravity of the situation, encouraging listeners to stay informed and engaged. They emphasize the importance of supporting democracy and holding leaders accountable for their actions.

Key Takeaways

1. Questionable Necessity and Execution: Governor Newsom challenges the necessity and execution of deploying 700 Marines to Los Angeles, citing mismanagement and inefficiency.
2. Erosion of Democratic Norms: The episode highlights concerns over actions perceived as undermining democratic institutions and the rule of law.
3. Impact on Local Communities: The deployment has direct negative effects on local communities, disrupting public events and instilling fear.
4. Military Welfare at Risk: There is significant concern for the welfare and proper utilization of military personnel involved in the deployment.
5. Call for Accountability: Governor Newsom calls for immediate action to reverse the deployment and urges political figures to uphold democratic principles.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Governor Newsom on Deployment Being "Orwellian":

  "It's Orwellian. It's a manufactured crisis." (00:23)

• Critique of Operational Inefficiency:

  "You're looking at chaos. You're looking at incompetency." (03:51)

• On Trump Threatening Arrests:

  "I've never thought... I'd hear those words uttered from the president of the United States, threatening the arrest... of a political opponent." (07:51)

• Erosion of Democratic Checks and Balances:

  "This is about the erosion of the rule of law. This is about a system of checks and balances." (07:51)

• Appeal to Rescind Orders:

  "Stand back. Rescind this absurd, illegal and immoral order. Let our military go home." (13:51)

Conclusion

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast captures a critical moment in American politics, showcasing Governor Gavin Newsom's staunch opposition to President Trump's military deployment in California. Through a blend of passionate rhetoric and factual critique, Newsom articulates deep concerns about governance, military utilization, and the preservation of democratic integrity. The discussion serves as a salient reminder of the ongoing tensions between state and federal authorities and the broader implications for civil liberties and governmental accountability.

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