Newsom did not make a smart decision saying this.
California Governor Gavin Newsom, widely viewed as a likely 2028 Democratic presidential contender, is facing intense scrutiny after a viral video clip triggered outrage across social media.
The controversy erupted during a book tour stop in Atlanta, where Newsom reflected on his academic struggles, including his SAT score and difficulty reading prepared speeches. What may have been intended as a personal story of overcoming challenges has instead turned into a political firestorm.
And for a governor believed to have White House ambitions, timing matters.
What Did Gavin Newsom Say?
Speaking alongside Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens at the Rialto Center for the Arts, Newsom described himself as “a 960 SAT guy” and said he often avoids reading prepared speeches because he struggles with it.
“I’m not trying to impress you… I’m just trying to impress upon you that I’m like you. I’m no better than you,” Newsom told the audience.
He added that public office may be “the wrong business” for someone who has difficulty reading speeches.
Within hours, the clip spread rapidly online.
WATCH:
Gov. Newsom to a black crowd in GA: "I am like you. I'm a 960 SAT guy. I can't read." pic.twitter.com/4Gk0WKbIYz
— End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) February 23, 2026
Viral Reaction: Conservatives Call Comments “Tone-Deaf”
The video was first amplified by the conservative social media account End Wokeness and quickly amassed millions of views.
Several high-profile conservative voices weighed in:
- Senator Ted Cruz called the remarks an example of the “soft bigotry of low expectations.”
- Fox News contributor Joe Concha suggested the clip could become campaign ad material in 2028.
- OutKick founder Clay Travis criticized the statement as politically damaging.
- Radio host Mark Levin questioned how media outlets would respond if a Republican had made similar remarks.
- Commentator Carol Swain described the moment as “liberal racism on display.”
A recurring theme among critics: Would the media reaction be the same if a Republican governor had made comparable comments?
That question is now part of the broader debate.
Newsom’s Office Responds
Newsom’s spokesperson dismissed the backlash as politically manufactured outrage.
According to his office, the governor has openly discussed his dyslexia and academic struggles for years, including in conversations with conservative audiences.
Supporters argue the clip lacks full context and say Newsom was simply sharing a personal story about perseverance — not making a broader statement about any group.
Atlanta Mayor Defends the Conversation
Mayor Andre Dickens also pushed back against the criticism, emphasizing that the remarks were part of a longer discussion about overcoming obstacles.
He encouraged viewers to watch the entire exchange rather than relying on short clips circulating online.
“Context matters,” Dickens wrote, urging critics to engage with the full conversation before drawing conclusions.
Why This Matters for 2028
For months, political analysts have speculated that Gavin Newsom is preparing for a 2028 presidential run. His national media appearances and memoir release have only intensified those rumors.
But presidential campaigns are often shaped by defining moments — sometimes by a single viral clip.
For older voters especially, questions of leadership, communication ability, and judgment carry significant weight. In an era where short video snippets can dominate national headlines, even personal anecdotes can become political liabilities.
Whether this controversy fades or follows Newsom into a potential 2028 primary remains to be seen.
But one reality is clear:
When you’re seen as a future presidential candidate, every word is campaign material.
The Bigger Question for Voters
This episode raises broader issues that many Americans — particularly voters over 50 — consistently prioritize:
- Does a candidate project competence and clarity?
- Can they handle national scrutiny?
- Are they prepared for the intensity of a presidential race?
As the 2028 conversation quietly begins to take shape, moments like this may help define early narratives.
And in modern politics, narratives matter.
Final Thoughts
Political careers aren’t usually derailed by one comment. But viral moments can plant lasting impressions.
For Governor Newsom, the challenge now isn’t just defending the context — it’s managing the optics in a media environment where perception often becomes reality.
With 2028 on the horizon, voters across the country are watching closely.
