Trump Criticizes Newsom's Dyslexia as Disqualifying for Presidency

California governor fires back, saying president's remarks amount to 'bullying' of those with learning disabilities

Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:04am

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President Donald Trump questioned California Gov. Gavin Newsom's fitness for the White House during remarks to reporters, pointing to Newsom's publicly disclosed learning disabilities as a liability for anyone seeking the nation's highest office. Newsom, who is widely believed to harbor White House ambitions, has spoken openly about his dyslexia for years and was in the middle of promoting his memoir when the exchange escalated.

Why it matters

The back-and-forth highlights the potential political vulnerabilities Newsom may face if he decides to run for president, as Trump and Republicans seek to portray the governor's learning disabilities as disqualifying. However, critics argue the real issue is Newsom's record of governing California, not his personal struggles.

The details

Trump did not mince words, stating: "Honestly, I'm all for people with learning disabilities. But not for my president...I think a president should not have learning disabilities." He also seized on remarks Newsom made last month at a book tour event in Atlanta, where the governor spoke about his academic record and struggles with reading. Republicans criticized Newsom for allegedly talking down to a mostly Black audience, which Trump called "the worst interview I've ever seen of any human being in my life."

  • On March 18, 2026, President Trump made the remarks about Newsom's dyslexia in the Oval Office.
  • Last month, Newsom made comments about his academic record and reading struggles during a book tour event in Atlanta.

The players

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States who questioned Newsom's fitness for the presidency due to his dyslexia.

Gavin Newsom

The current governor of California who has spoken openly about his dyslexia and is widely believed to harbor White House ambitions.

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What they’re saying

“Honestly, I'm all for people with learning disabilities. But not for my president...I think a president should not have learning disabilities.”

— Donald Trump, President of the United States (conservativejournalreview.com)

“To every kid with a learning disability: don't let anyone — not even the President of the United States — bully you.”

— Gavin Newsom, Governor of California (X)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.