Newsom Hits Back at Hannity Over 'Fake Outrage' on SAT Comment

California governor defends discussing his dyslexia and low SAT score after right-wing criticism

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom responded forcefully to criticism from conservative media figures like Sean Hannity over his comments about his low SAT score, calling out their 'fake fucking outrage' and contrasting it with their silence on racist comments from former President Trump.

Why it matters

Newsom's comments about his struggles with dyslexia and low SAT score were seen by some as an attempt to connect with Black voters, but were criticized by right-wing media as racist. This exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions and accusations of racism that often surround discussions of education and achievement.

The details

During a promotional appearance for his new memoir, Newsom said he had an SAT score of 960 and was 'a 960 SAT guy,' prompting accusations of racism from conservative figures like Nicki Minaj and Sean Hannity. Newsom fired back, calling out Hannity and others for their 'fake fucking outrage' while ignoring far more egregious racist comments from former President Trump.

  • Newsom made the comments about his SAT score during an appearance with Atlanta Mayor Andrew Dickens on Sunday, February 23, 2026.
  • Newsom's memoir 'Young Man in a Hurry' is set to be published on Tuesday, February 25, 2026.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The governor of California who is considering a 2028 presidential bid.

Sean Hannity

A conservative media personality and host on Fox News.

Nicki Minaj

A rapper and vocal supporter of former President Donald Trump.

Bakari Sellers

A CNN political commentator and former Democratic state lawmaker in South Carolina.

Andrew Dickens

The mayor of Atlanta, Georgia.

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What they’re saying

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

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California

“Dems must stop doing dumb shit. I have my issues with @GavinNewsom but he's the furthest thing from a racist. His story about overcoming dyslexia is powerful and endearing, one I wish he'd lean into more. His remarks show a blindness and were inartful. But leave it there. Donald Trump is racist. Gavin is not.”

— Bakari Sellers, CNN Political Commentator (X)

What’s next

Newsom's memoir 'Young Man in a Hurry' is set to be published on Tuesday, February 25, 2026, which may prompt further discussion and commentary around his comments about his SAT score and dyslexia.

The takeaway

This exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions and accusations of racism that often surround discussions of education and achievement, as well as the stark contrast in how conservative media figures respond to racist comments from Republican versus Democratic politicians.