California Governor Faces Backlash for Comparing Himself to Black Voters

RunWithRugs · 2026-03-04T20:54:37+00:00

California Governor Gavin Newsom faced backlash for comments made in Atlanta, where he attempted to connect with Black voters by discussing his low SAT score and dyslexia. Critics viewed his remarks as poorly timed amidst speculation about his presidential aspirations for 2028.

RunWithRugs

2026-03-04 20:54:37

Abstract generation in progress

(MENAFN) California Governor Gavin Newsom faced criticism after telling an audience in Atlanta, “I’m like you,” while discussing his low SAT score and reading difficulties, remarks some critics interpreted as a misguided attempt to relate to Black voters.

Newsom, frequently mentioned as a potential candidate for the 2028 US presidential election, made the comments during an event intended to engage African-American voters.

He was in Georgia promoting his memoir, Young Man in a Hurry, as part of a multi-state book tour fueling speculation about a possible 2028 campaign. During a Sunday discussion with Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Newsom was asked what he hoped readers would take away from the book.

“I’m not trying to impress you,” he said in a self-deprecating tone. “I’m just trying to impress upon you I’m like you. I’m no better than you. I’m a 960 SAT guy.”

The governor also addressed his dyslexia and challenges with reading. “You’ve never seen me read a speech, because I cannot read a speech. Maybe the wrong business to be in.”

While his attempt at humor drew laughter from the audience and a nod from Dickens, video of the exchange quickly went viral, amassing tens of millions of views on social media, according to reports.

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