California Governor Gavin Newsom's statements regarding his personal academic experiences, including his SAT score and dyslexia, during a recent book event in Atlanta, Georgia, have led to widespread discussion and criticism. Speaking to a predominantly Black audience, Newsom aimed to connect with attendees by sharing personal struggles with reading, which prompted reactions ranging from audience acknowledgment to online and political accusations of racism and insensitivity.
Governor Newsom's Remarks Spark Controversy
On Sunday, California Governor Gavin Newsom participated in a book launch event for his memoir, "Young Man in a Hurry," at the Rialto Center for the Arts in Atlanta. During a conversation with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Newsom addressed a predominantly Black audience, stating he was "just like them" and "no better than you," citing personal experiences. The event occurred on the same day Newsom endorsed former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms.
Newsom stated:
- "I'm a 960 SAT guy." He clarified, "I'm not trying to offend anyone — you know — trying to act all there if you got 940 — but 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."
He also publicly referenced his long-standing experience with dyslexia. The audience reportedly chuckled following some of his remarks, which Mayor Dickens acknowledged. A clip of this exchange has subsequently accumulated over 35 million views online.
Context: Newsom's Academic History and Background
Newsom's stated SAT score of 960 is higher than the average score of 907 for Black test-takers in 2024, according to College Board data, but falls below the national average of 1024. Newsom's office has stated that the governor has made similar public comments about his SAT scores and reading challenges, including dyslexia, for years and has shared this personal story with various groups. He has previously discussed his 960 SAT score in the context of a potential 2028 presidential bid, and his current book tour includes stops in states considered relevant to a future presidential campaign.
Newsom's personal background includes an affluent upbringing. His father served as a state appeals court judge and managed the Getty family trust. At age 24, Gordon Getty reportedly provided funding for Newsom's first business venture, PlumpJack wine shop, which later expanded. This background has previously been cited in discussions regarding Newsom's attempts to present a "regular-guy" public persona.
Widespread Criticism and Accusations
Newsom's remarks drew criticism from various individuals and political figures, who questioned the appropriateness of his approach to connecting with the audience.
Rapper Nicki Minaj commented on X, writing, "His way of bonding with black ppl is to tell them how stupid he is & that he can't read." She also noted his delivery, observing his "slowing his speech down & talking in a sporadic cadence. As if they're children."
Republican Senator Tim Scott stated that Newsom "suffers from the 'bigotry of low expectations'" and criticized "Democrats... stereotyping Black people." Scott further admonished Newsom for "using your mediocre academics as a way to patronize communities."
Conservatives and Republican officials amplified the comments, with some, including Fox News host Sean Hannity, claiming they were racist due to Newsom speaking with a Black elected official.
Official Responses and Mayor Dickens' Defense
Newsom and his team addressed the criticisms, largely characterizing them as politically motivated.
- Newsom directly responded to Sean Hannity on X, dismissing what he termed "fake f**** outrage**." He referenced past comments attributed to former President Trump, including a video depicting former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama as apes (later deleted by the White House) and past remarks referring to African nations as "s***holes."
- A spokesperson for Newsom attributed the backlash to "MAGA-manufactured outrage," stating the governor had shared his personal story with various audiences previously.
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens offered his perspective on the discussion via a social media post, stating, "context matters more than a headline." Dickens described the conversation as focusing on Newsom's academic struggles and characterized it as "a moment of vulnerability about his own journey" rather than "an attack on anyone."
Dickens added, "We've gotten so used to loud, chest-pounding politics that when someone speaks about shortcomings, people try to twist it into something else." He concluded by stating, "This is Atlanta. We don't need anyone to tell us when to be offended. And history has shown ... when we are, you'll know."