Pham Accuses Newsom of Thinking Black People 'Dumb' Over SAT Score Comments

MLB player Tommy Pham criticizes California governor's remarks about his own low test scores.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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MLB free agent Tommy Pham accused California Governor Gavin Newsom of thinking Black people are "dumb" after Newsom made comments about his own low SAT score of 960 during an event in Atlanta. Pham reshared clips of Newsom's remarks, in which the governor said "I'm a 960 SAT guy. I can't read," and claimed Newsom believes Black people are intellectually inferior.

Why it matters

Newsom's comments about his own test scores and reading ability have sparked widespread criticism, with some interpreting his remarks as having racial undertones. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about standardized testing, educational equity, and perceptions of intelligence.

The details

In an Instagram story, Pham reshared a clip of Newsom telling Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens "I'm a 960 SAT guy. I can't read." Pham accused Newsom of thinking Black people are "dumb." Newsom has defended his comments, saying he was referring to his own dyslexia, but critics argue his remarks reveal a belief that Black Americans are intellectually inferior.

  • On February 26, 2026, Pham addressed Newsom's comments on his Instagram Stories.

The players

Tommy Pham

An MLB free agent who criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom's comments about his own low SAT score.

Gavin Newsom

The governor of California who made controversial remarks about his SAT score and reading ability during an event in Atlanta.

Andre Dickens

The mayor of Atlanta who was present when Newsom made his comments.

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What they’re saying

“I can't relate I was a straight A student and scored well on my SAT he thinks black [people] are dumb.”

— Tommy Pham, MLB Player (Instagram)

“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.”

— Izzy Gardon, Newsom Spokesperson (Fox News Digital)

“That wasn't an attack on anyone. It was a moment of vulnerability about his own journey.”

— Andre Dickens, Atlanta Mayor (Instagram)

What’s next

The controversy over Newsom's comments is likely to continue, with critics and defenders debating the governor's intent and the broader implications of his remarks.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing sensitivity around issues of race, education, and perceptions of intelligence in the United States. It underscores the need for greater understanding and nuance when discussing these complex topics, particularly from public figures.