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Newsom's SAT Comment Sparks Backlash Ahead of 2028 Bid

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom faced backlash after comments about his SAT score at an Atlanta memoir event.
He said, "I'm a 960 SAT guy," to connect with attendees.
Rapper Nicki Minaj described the remarks as condescending and "soft bigotry."
Senator Tim Scott emphasized the achievements of Black Americans.
Newsom defended himself, saying the comments stemmed from his dyslexia, and the controversy could affect his potential 2028 presidential candidacy.

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Story summary

California Governor Gavin Newsom faced backlash after comments about his SAT score at an Atlanta memoir event.
He said, "I'm a 960 SAT guy," to connect with attendees.
Rapper Nicki Minaj described the remarks as condescending and "soft bigotry."
Senator Tim Scott emphasized the achievements of Black Americans.
Newsom defended himself, saying the comments stemmed from his dyslexia, and the controversy could affect his potential 2028 presidential candidacy.