Newsom and Trump Engage in Heated Exchange Over Dyslexia and Cognitive Health
California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, has launched a fierce counterattack against former President Donald Trump after Trump accused him of racism and criticized him for openly discussing his struggles with dyslexia. The conflict erupted on Wednesday when Trump posted a lengthy critique on Truth Social, responding to a resurfaced clip from Newsom's book tour stop in Atlanta where the governor mentioned his low SAT scores.
Trump's Accusations and Mischaracterization of Dyslexia
In his post, Trump labeled Newsom's interview as "perhaps, the most self destructive interview I've ever seen," claiming it disqualified him from Democratic presidential consideration. Trump further asserted that Newsom described himself as "dumb, had low Boards, can't read, has dyslexia, and has a mental disorder — A Cognitive Mess!" He added, "Black People are angry because he is obviously a racist."
Contrary to Trump's claims, dyslexia is not a "mental disorder." According to the American Brain Foundation, it is a neurodevelopmental condition categorized as a brain-based learning disorder that causes difficulties with reading and processing written language. The Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity notes that dyslexia is common, affecting approximately 20% of the population.
Newsom's Swift Response and Escalating Tensions
Newsom quickly fired back on X, writing, "I spoke about my dyslexia. I know that's hard for a brain-dead moron who bombs children and protects pedophiles to understand." This exchange is part of a broader escalation in friction between the two political figures in recent months.
Trump continued his attacks during a campaign speech in Hebron, Kentucky, stating, "I don't want the president of the United States to have a cognitive deficiency." In response, Newsom reposted the speech on X with the comment, "Too late," alluding to ongoing public concerns about the 79-year-old former president's cognitive health. Trump has repeatedly denied any issues, maintaining that he "aced" a cognitive test.
Newsom further mocked Trump in another X post, resharing the speech and writing, "Grandpa's talking about himself again. We wish him well — it's never too late to seek mental treatment."
Defense from Atlanta Mayor and Context of Newsom's Remarks
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens defended Newsom on Instagram, explaining that the governor's SAT comments were not "an attack on anyone" but rather a "moment of vulnerability about his own journey." He urged people to consider the "full context" and "complete conversation," rather than relying on edited clips.
Newsom went viral for saying during his appearance, "I'm like you. I'm no better than you. I'm a 960 SAT guy. And you know, I'm not trying to offend anyone [and] act 'all there' if you got 940." This statement was part of a broader discussion about his personal experiences.
Media Controversy and Misleading Clips
The controversy intensified after Fox News personalities claimed Newsom made "offensive" remarks to a "Black audience," and host Sean Hannity posted a misleading, edited clip of the remarks on X. Newsom blasted Hannity over what he called "fake fucking outrage," accusing him of distorting the context to fuel political attacks.
This ongoing feud highlights deeper political divisions and the use of personal health issues as ammunition in public discourse, with both sides leveraging accusations to undermine each other's credibility.
