California Governor Gavin Newsom is facing backlash over comments he made about his academic struggles, which some critics claim reveal a condescending attitude towards Black voters. The controversy erupted after a video clip surfaced, showing Newsom telling Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, “I’m like you,” while discussing his reading difficulties and low SAT score. This clip went viral, garnering over 40 million views and drawing sharp criticism from figures like Corrin Rankin, chairwoman of the California Republican Party, who believes Newsom’s remarks exemplify a patronizing approach.
Rankin, who is historically significant as the first Black chair of the California GOP, expressed disbelief at Newsom’s comments in 2026. “You can’t go around and say that a segment of your state is intellectually inferior and think you’re gonna represent Americans,” she stated. According to her, Newsom’s words may severely tarnish his political future, especially as he eyes a potential White House run in 2028. She asserted, “This is gonna haunt him for the rest of his career and any potential career he thinks he’s going to have.”
In the wake of the criticism, Newsom defended himself, insisting that he was simply discussing his dyslexia. His spokesperson, Izzy Gardon, accused critics of creating “MAGA-manufactured outrage” and noted that Newsom has previously shared his experiences with dyslexia in various public forums. Notably, Gardon pointed out that such disclosures have been made “with Charlie Kirk and dozens of other audiences.”
However, Rankin remains unconvinced by this defense. She argues that Newsom’s underlying belief is one that suggests Black Americans are intellectually inferior. “Trying to blame this on dyslexia is something that is completely separate from what he intended to say,” she contended. Her assertions tap into a broader discussion about the way political leaders engage with issues faced by the Black community.
The criticism extends beyond Newsom’s comments to encompass a larger narrative regarding how Democrats communicate with voters. In recent weeks, Democrats have been scrutinized for opposing federal voter ID legislation, a move characterized by Sen. Chuck Schumer as “Jim Crow 2.0.” This framing has drawn ire, with observers calling for more genuine dialogue free from insinuations of inferiority. As Rankin observed, “Thinking that Black people are intellectually inferior, that’s the mindset that contributed to Jim Crow.”
While many have rallied around Newsom on social media, pointing to his dyslexia as a valid context for his statements, the situation reflects an ongoing tension. Mayor Dickens responded positively to Newsom’s remarks, suggesting they were a moment of vulnerability rather than an attack on anyone. Despite this, the overarching question remains: How should political discourse evolve to authentically engage diverse communities?
Rankin’s staunch criticism emphasizes the importance of sensitivity in political language and the dangers of perceived pandering. “It’s a lie; we all know it’s a lie,” she asserted, addressing the broader implications behind Newsom’s comments. For leaders aspiring to national office, understanding the weight of their words and the historical context surrounding them is crucial.
The controversy serves as a reminder that in today’s charged political climate, statements about personal experiences can rapidly become matters of public scrutiny. How Newsom navigates this backlash could significantly impact his standing within both the Democratic Party and the larger political arena.
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