Trump and Newsom Engage in Social Media Feud Amid 2028 Speculation

President Donald Trump recently stirred controversy by suggesting that California Governor Gavin Newsom had withdrawn from the 2028 presidential race. Trump made this claim in a post on his Truth Social platform, stating, “Wow! Gavin Newscum just dropped out of the Presidential Race!!!” This remark coincided with Newsom facing backlash for comments he made regarding his SAT scores during a book tour event in Atlanta.

Daily WireNewsweekThe IndependentInquisitrNewsweekThe Hill

In response to Trump's post, Newsom utilized social media to mock the president, stating, “WOW. THE PRESIDENT IS SUNDOWNING HARDER THAN USUAL TONIGHT!!!” The term "sundowning" refers to confusion and agitation often experienced by individuals with dementia, a jab that has become a recurring theme in Newsom's critiques of Trump. Newsom's comments came after he discussed his struggles with dyslexia and his low SAT score of 960, which he mentioned to emphasize his relatability to the audience.

InquisitrDaily WireNewsweekNewsweekThe Independent

During the Atlanta event, Newsom stated, “I’m not trying to impress you, I’m just trying to impress upon you, I’m like you. I’m no better than you.” His remarks were intended to convey vulnerability about his academic challenges, but they sparked accusations of insensitivity, particularly regarding race. Critics, including conservative commentators, labeled his comments as racially charged, suggesting he was attempting to pander to a predominantly Black audience.

Newsweek

Newsom's comments were met with significant backlash from conservative figures. Florida Representative Randy Fine accused him of suggesting that he was “like a Black person” due to his SAT score and inability to read, calling it “disgusting.” Rapper Nicki Minaj also criticized Newsom, asserting that his approach to connecting with Black individuals was inappropriate. In contrast, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens defended Newsom, emphasizing the importance of context and stating that the governor's remarks were not an attack but a moment of personal reflection.

Newsweek

Newsom's spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, labeled the criticism as "MAGA-manufactured outrage," asserting that the governor has openly discussed his dyslexia for years. Newsom himself responded to Fox News host Sean Hannity, who criticized his comments, by questioning the selective outrage directed at him compared to Trump's past remarks.

Newsweek

As speculation about his presidential ambitions continues, Newsom is actively promoting his memoir, *Young Man in a Hurry*, which addresses his personal struggles and political aspirations. The book tour includes stops in key states, and while Newsom has not officially declared his candidacy for the 2028 election, he is widely regarded as a frontrunner for the Democratic nomination.

Newsweek

• “WOW. THE PRESIDENT IS SUNDOWNING HARDER THAN USUAL TONIGHT!!! — GOVERNOR GCN,” — Governor Gavin Newsom

Daily Wire

• “I just want to put it all out there. I'm not, you know, I'm not trying to impress you, I’m just trying to impress upon you, I’m like you. I’m no better than you. You know, I’m a 960 SAT guy.” — Governor Gavin Newsom

Newsweek

• “First MAGA mocked his dyslexia and now they’re calling him racist for talking about his low SAT scores. This is MAGA-manufactured outrage,” — Izzy Gardon, Newsom's Spokesperson

Newsweek

• “You didn’t give a sh*t about the President of the United States of America posting an ape video of President Obama or calling African nations sh*tholes — but you’re going to call me racist for talking about my lifelong struggle with dyslexia?” — Governor Gavin Newsom

Daily Wire

This ongoing exchange between Trump and Newsom highlights the contentious political landscape as both figures prepare for potential future campaigns.

The Hill