California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent comments about his personal struggles with dyslexia and academic challenges have drawn sharp criticism from Republican Representative Randy Fine of Florida’s 6th Congressional District. Newsom, speaking to a predominantly Black audience in Atlanta during his ongoing book tour, candidly described his difficulties in school, including frequent moves between schools, low SAT scores, and the impact of dyslexia on his ability to read speeches. His remarks were intended to illustrate shared challenges and resilience, but Fine responded with condemnation.
Gavin Newsom just said he is like a black person because he got a bad SAT score and can’t read.
— Congressman Randy Fine (@RepFine) February 23, 2026
I wish I could come up with something witty, but it’s so disgusting, I can’t.
I look forward to all my Democrat colleagues in Congress demanding his resignation tomorrow. https://t.co/EsfKeZjWmi
Fine posted on social media that Newsom’s comments were “so disgusting, I can’t” respond wittily. “Gavin Newsom just said he is like a black person because he got a bad SAT score and can’t read. I look forward to all my Democrat colleagues in Congress demanding his resignation tomorrow,” Fine wrote, referencing a clip in which Newsom said, “I am like you. I’m a 960 SAT guy. I can’t read.”
"Hey, black people of Atlanta, I'm just like you! I got a 960 on my SAT and I can't read!" – Gavin Newsom.
— Anthony Brian Logan (ABL) 🇺🇸 (@ANTHONYBLOGAN) February 23, 2026
He didn't quite say that. But he might as well have. pic.twitter.com/vN2Ao8XiZR
Newsom’s Atlanta remarks focused on his personal journey with dyslexia, describing himself as a student who often hid in the back of classrooms and struggled to keep up with reading assignments. He framed the discussion around connection and empathy, aiming to relate to audience members who may have faced similar academic challenges. “I cannot—you’ve never seen me read a speech—because I cannot read a speech. Maybe the wrong business to be in,” Newsom said, highlighting his ongoing efforts to navigate public life despite these challenges.
Beyond his personal reflections, Newsom tied his experiences to broader civic issues. He spoke about the importance of civic engagement, voter participation, and standing against intimidation or suppression efforts. His discussion included references to historical and contemporary challenges in the United States, aiming to provide lessons on perseverance and activism.
The governor’s remarks were part of a promotion for his new memoir, Young Man in a Hurry, in which he explores both personal and political experiences. The book emphasizes authenticity, addressing his insecurities, mistakes, and family history alongside his professional achievements. Newsom has been widely noted as a potential contender for the 2028 presidential election, currently ranked second in betting odds.
Fine’s response highlights the partisan tensions that often accompany statements by high-profile political figures, particularly when comments touch on race or personal identity. As a Republican representative from Florida, Fine’s post underscores how Newsom’s remarks have sparked immediate political backlash, even as the governor seeks to use his personal narrative to foster connection with a national audience.
