Newsom Defends 'Racist' SAT Comments, Blasts 'Fake Outrage'

California governor fires back at critics over remarks about his low test scores during Atlanta event.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom is defending his comments about his low SAT scores during an onstage chat with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, calling out critics who have accused him of racism. Newsom said he was trying to relate to the predominantly Black audience by sharing his 'lifelong struggle with dyslexia' but was met with backlash, including from Sen. Ted Cruz and singer Nicki Minaj.

Why it matters

Newsom's comments have sparked a debate around issues of race, education, and political correctness. As a potential 2028 Democratic presidential contender, Newsom's handling of the controversy could impact his political future.

The details

During the Sunday night event in Atlanta promoting his memoir 'Young Man in a Hurry', Newsom told the audience: 'I'm a 960 SAT guy. And I'm not trying to offend anyone. I'm not trying to act all there if you got 940 ... You've never seen me read a speech because I cannot read a speech.' Critics accused Newsom of expressing the 'soft bigotry of low expectations' and 'liberal racism'.

  • Newsom made the comments during a Sunday night event in Atlanta.
  • Newsom is set to appear in Rock Hill, South Carolina on Monday evening for another stop on his book tour.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Democratic governor of California who is considered a potential 2028 presidential contender.

Andre Dickens

The mayor of Atlanta, Georgia, who appeared onstage with Newsom during the event.

Ted Cruz

The Republican senator from Texas who accused Newsom of expressing the 'soft bigotry of low expectations'.

Nicki Minaj

The singer and frequent Newsom critic who lambasted the governor for his comments.

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What they’re saying

“You didn't give a s— about the President of the United States of America posting an ape video of President Obama or calling African nations s—holes — but you're going to call me racist for talking about my lifelong struggle with dyslexia? Spare me your fake f—ing outrage.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (X)

“Liberal racism on display.”

— Carol M. Swain, Political scientist (Twitter)

“His way of bonding with black ppl is to tell them how stupid he is & that he can't read.”

— Nicki Minaj (X)

What’s next

Newsom is set to appear in Rock Hill, South Carolina on Monday evening for another stop on his book tour, where he may face additional questions about his controversial comments.

The takeaway

Newsom's remarks have ignited a debate over issues of race, education, and political correctness, with the California governor defending himself against accusations of racism. As a potential 2028 presidential contender, Newsom's handling of this controversy could have significant implications for his political future.