California Governor Gavin Newsom faced an embarrassing setback when a technical glitch disrupted a live video broadcast meant to address President Trump’s handling of the riots in Los Angeles. The broadcast, streamed via the governor’s official account, encountered audio problems that rendered the initial part of his remarks inaudible to viewers. The technical malfunction occurred on June 11, 2025, during a tumultuous time for the city as violent protests erupted against ICE operations.
The video, which was later removed, showcased Newsom attempting to denounce Trump’s decision to deploy federal forces, including National Guard troops, in response to the escalating unrest. In the portions of the speech where audio was restored, Newsom criticized the president for overriding established legal procedures and accused him of seeking a spectacle rather than a solution.
The unrest in Los Angeles began over the weekend as protesters clashed with law enforcement following ICE’s immigration enforcement operations. Demonstrations quickly turned violent, with protesters throwing objects at police officers and blocking roads. Notably, one scene captured a vehicle ablaze in a street intersection, underscoring the severity of the situation. Resist the Mainstream and Breitbart News provided coverage of the events, documenting over 40 arrests related to ICE operations and the widespread community and official backlash to the federal enforcement actions.
President Trump’s response to the deteriorating situation included the deployment of 4,000 National Guard troops and hundreds of U.S. Marines to maintain order. However, Democratic leaders have criticized this move as excessive and an instance of government overreach.
Adding to the controversy, Newsom’s wife, Jennifer Siebel Newsom, was reported by Resist the Mainstream to have visited an upscale wellness complex in Beverly Hills during the ongoing protests, an action that drew criticism for its stark contrast to the city’s unrest.
Social media users, such as Finley50 and Lance McDonald, were quick to comment on the failed broadcast, with tweets mocking the absence of audio and suggesting that the silence was preferable.
The incident highlights the challenges of political communication in times of crisis and the potential for technical issues to disrupt important messages. As Governor Newsom aimed to critique the federal government’s actions, the audio glitch inadvertently shifted the focus from policy to the mishap itself, raising questions about the efficacy of digital platforms in disseminating political statements during critical times.
