MAGA Backlash Against Gavin Newsom's Remarks on Dyslexia

California Governor Gavin Newsom faced significant backlash from supporters of President Donald Trump and other conservatives following remarks he made during a book tour event in Atlanta. Speaking candidly about his experiences with dyslexia, Newsom stated, “I’m a 960 SAT guy,” and added, “You’ve never seen me read a speech, because I cannot read a speech.” His comments were perceived by some as derogatory, particularly when a clip of his remarks was shared by the conservative account End Wokeness, which suggested he was speaking to a predominantly Black audience. However, footage from the event revealed a diverse crowd.

Newsweek

The reaction from conservative figures was swift and harsh. Rapper Nicki Minaj criticized Newsom on X, stating that his approach to connecting with Black people was to highlight his own perceived shortcomings. Texas Senator Ted Cruz labeled Newsom's comments as “the soft bigotry of low expectations,” while Florida Representative Randy Fine expressed hope that his Democratic colleagues would demand Newsom's resignation. Fine remarked, “Gavin Newsom just said he is like a black person because he got a bad SAT score and can’t read,” calling the comments disgusting.

Newsweek

In response to the backlash, Newsom defended his comments, asserting that he was sharing his personal struggles with dyslexia and not making any racial comparisons. He criticized Fox News host Sean Hannity for implying that his remarks were racist, stating, “You’re going to call me racist for talking about my lifelong struggle with dyslexia? Spare me your fake f---ing outrage, Sean.” Newsom also pointed out the lack of outrage from MAGA supporters regarding President Trump's history of racially charged comments, including derogatory remarks about Black nations and individuals.

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Gavin Newsom's memoir, titled *Young Man in a Hurry*, is scheduled for release on February 24, 2024. Following the Atlanta event, his book tour will continue with stops in Rock Hill, South Carolina, New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. As he builds his national profile, Newsom is widely expected to consider a bid for the Democratic presidential nomination in 2028.

Newsweek

• “I’m not trying to impress you, I’m just trying to impress upon you: I’m like you. I’m not better than you. I’m a 960 SAT guy,” — Gavin Newsom

Daily Beast

• “ Nicki Minaj wrote on X: “His way of bonding with black ppl is to tell them how stupid he is & that he can’t read.” — Nicki Minaj

Newsweek

• “Gavin Newsom just said he is like a black person because he got a bad SAT score and can’t read. I wish I could come up with something witty, but it’s so disgusting, I can’t. I look forward to all my Democrat colleagues in Congress demanding his resignation tomorrow.” — Randy Fine

Newsweek

• “You’re going to call me racist for talking about my lifelong struggle with dyslexia? Spare me your fake f---ing outrage, Sean,” — Gavin Newsom

Daily Beast

This controversy highlights the complexities of public discourse surrounding race, ability, and political identity, particularly as Newsom positions himself for a potential presidential run.

Daily Beast