In a candid Oval Office discussion with reporters on March 16, 2026, President Donald Trump raised pointed questions about California Governor Gavin Newsom’s suitability for the presidency, zeroing in on Newsom’s openly discussed dyslexia as a potential liability.
Trump, speaking amid broader talks on voter identification laws and Democratic opposition to them, didn’t hold back in his assessment. “That’s how crazy it’s gotten with a low IQ person, you know, because Gavin Newsom has admitted…that he has learning disabilities,” Trump stated. He added, “Honestly, I’m all for people with learning disabilities. But not for my president…I think a president should not have learning disabilities.”
The remarks escalated further as Trump labeled Newsom’s condition and overall demeanor: “Everything about him is dumb.” He acknowledged the controversy of his words, saying, “I know it’s highly controversial to say such a horrible thing… Gavin Newsom admitted that he has learning disabilities, dyslexia.”
These comments stem from Newsom’s recent appearance at a book tour event in Atlanta promoting his memoir, Young Man in a Hurry. Speaking with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens before a predominantly Black audience, Newsom shared personal anecdotes about his challenges. “You’ve never seen me read a speech, because I cannot read a speech… I haven’t overcome dyslexia. I’m living with it,” Newsom explained.
He continued, positioning himself relatably: “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… I’m a 960 SAT guy. And, you know, and I’m not trying to offend anyone, you know, ‘trying to act all there if you got 940’… Literally a 960 SAT guy, you’ve never seen me read a speech. Because I cannot read a speech. Maybe the wrong business to be in.”
Trump seized on this exchange, accusing Newsom of racism: “So now, on top of everything else, I call him a racist because it happened to be a black audience… I will tell you this, I think it was the worst interview I’ve ever seen of any human being in my life.” Republicans echoed similar criticisms, suggesting Newsom was condescending to the crowd.
Newsom, widely seen as harboring presidential aspirations, has long been transparent about his dyslexia—a neurological condition that impacts reading abilities, as defined by the International Dyslexia Association. He has referenced it in various public forums, including discussions with conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.
In response to the backlash, Newsom’s spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, dismissed the uproar as politically motivated: “First MAGA mocked his dyslexia and now they’re calling him racist for talking about his low SAT scores. This is MAGA-manufactured outrage… The Governor has said this publicly for years — including with Charlie Kirk and dozens of other audiences. The same people who excused or ignored Trump’s racist ape video can go f— themselves.”
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and Newsom, who have clashed on issues from election integrity to governance styles. Fox News reached out to Newsom’s office for further comment, but no additional response was provided in the report.
This development comes amid Newsom’s increasing national profile, fueling speculation about his future political moves. Dyslexia affects millions worldwide, and advocates emphasize that it does not diminish intelligence or capability—points often underscored in discussions of public figures like Newsom who thrive despite it.
