California Governor Gavin Newsom sparked outrage after telling an Atlanta audience he can relate to them because he scored 960 on the SAT and “cannot read a speech,” then lashed out with profanity when conservatives called out the patronizing remarks.
Story Snapshot
- Newsom told Atlanta crowd “I’m like you” citing 960 SAT score and inability to read speeches due to dyslexia during February 22 memoir event
- Senator Tim Scott and Sean Hannity blasted comments as racially condescending, representing “bigotry of low expectations” toward Black voters
- Governor responded with profanity-laced social media tirade against Hannity, refusing to apologize for remarks
- Even Democratic strategists criticized the phrasing as “inartful” and urged party leaders to “stop doing dumb sh-t”
Patronizing Remarks Spark Bipartisan Criticism
Governor Gavin Newsom addressed a diverse Atlanta audience on February 22, 2026, during a promotional event for his memoir “Young Man in a Hurry.” Moderated by Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Newsom attempted to build rapport by declaring himself “like you” and “no better than you,” citing his 960 SAT score and inability to read speeches due to lifelong dyslexia. The comments immediately drew fire from conservatives who recognized the implicit assumption that low academic achievement would resonate with the audience. This represents yet another example of liberal elitism disguised as empathy, reinforcing harmful stereotypes while claiming solidarity.
Conservative Leaders Condemn Stereotyping
Senator Tim Scott wasted no time calling out Newsom’s remarks as the “bigotry of low expectations,” a phrase that perfectly captures progressive condescension toward minority communities. Fox News host Sean Hannity amplified viral clips of the comments, highlighting the troubling implications of a wealthy, privileged governor suggesting that academic struggles make him relatable to Black voters. Even rapper Nicki Minaj mocked Newsom’s attempt to bond through self-deprecation about being “stupid.” The backlash demonstrates Americans’ growing fatigue with politicians who pander rather than offer genuine solutions to educational failures plaguing communities nationwide.
Profane Meltdown Instead of Apology
Rather than acknowledge the legitimate concerns raised about his comments, Newsom responded on February 23 with an expletive-laden attack on Hannity. The governor posted on X: “You didn’t give a sh-t about… ape video of President Obama… Spare me your fake f–king outrage.” This unhinged reaction exemplifies the arrogance of California’s failing leadership, deflecting accountability by invoking unrelated controversies. Newsom’s communications director Izzy Gardon dismissed the entire controversy as “MAGA-manufactured,” refusing to address the substance of the criticism. This pattern of blame-shifting has become standard operating procedure for Democrats caught making offensive remarks.
Democrats Join Chorus of Disapproval
The controversy exposed rare fractures within Democratic ranks, as even party loyalists struggled to defend Newsom’s phrasing. CNN analyst and former South Carolina Representative Bakari Sellers called the remarks “inartful” and urged Democrats to “stop doing dumb sh-t.” Democratic strategist Ameshia Cross expressed disappointment in Newsom’s wording, though she attempted to contextualize his point within broader national literacy challenges. These criticisms from fellow Democrats underscore the political damage Newsom inflicted on himself, particularly damaging for someone widely speculated to harbor 2028 presidential ambitions. The incident reveals how progressive politicians consistently underestimate voters’ intelligence while claiming to champion their interests.
Broader Implications for Democratic Party
Newsom’s Atlanta gaffe fits a troubling pattern of Democratic leaders making tone-deaf racial appeals that ultimately backfire. The controversy highlights fundamental disconnects between coastal elite politicians and the working-class Americans they claim to represent. While Newsom has legitimately discussed his dyslexia diagnosis publicly for years, choosing to frame that personal struggle as common ground with Black voters reveals a spectacular blindness to how such comparisons sound. This episode will undoubtedly resurface if Newsom pursues higher office, serving as evidence of the condescending attitudes that drive voters away from the Democratic Party. Americans deserve leaders who respect their intelligence and address real problems rather than manufacturing false solidarity through offensive pandering.
Sources:
Newsom pushes back after right-wing media frame SAT remark as racist
Scott rips Newsom for saying ‘I’m like you’ before quoting low SAT score to Atlanta crowd
Newsom tells Georgia crowd, ‘I am like you. I’m a 960 SAT guy’
