Criticism of Gov. Newsom’s Comments on Black Voters

Political activist Cornel West has taken issue with Governor Gavin Newsom (D-Calif.) over his recent statements regarding Black voters, suggesting that such remarks shouldn’t be made lightly.

In a social media update, West mentioned that Newsom could have adopted a “humanistic approach.” He stated that Newsom might have expressed empathy by saying, “I’m just like you. I was born of a woman. I will face loss, pain, and death just like anyone else.” Instead, however, he chose to cite low SAT scores, an idea that West argues is rooted in white supremacy. He emphasized, “Don’t play with us like that, @CA Governor!”

West’s comments included audio from an interview with Tavis Smiley, where he remarked, “When he thinks of a Black man, he thinks of a lower SAT.”

During a recent engagement with Black voters in Georgia, as part of his push for his autobiography and potential 2028 presidential run, Newsom stated:

“I’m not trying to impress you. I’m just trying to impress upon you that I’m just like you. I’m not better than you. I am a person with SAT 960. And I’m not trying to offend anyone. If I get 940 points, I will try to do my best. But it’s literally someone with a SAT of 960. You’ve never seen me read a speech because I can’t read one. Maybe I’m in the wrong business.”

Following the backlash, Newsom attempted to clarify his statements by indicating they reflected his struggles with dyslexia. He also pushed back against Fox News host Sean Hannity for highlighting his remarks.

In a post, Newsom questioned why there was little outrage over other offensive actions, saying, “You didn’t care that the president of the United States posted a video of President Obama with a monkey or called African countries shit, but now you call me a racist for talking about my lifelong struggle with dyslexia? Please refrain from making false accusations, Sean.”

Moreover, rapper Nicki Minaj reacted to Newsom’s comments, arguing that his way of connecting with Black people seems condescending. She pointed out, “The way you bond with Black people is by telling them how stupid and illiterate you are.” Minaj elaborated on how Newsom spoke slowly, which she interpreted as implying that the audience needed help understanding, as if they were children.

In recent commentary, podcaster and radio host Charlamagne the God criticized Newsom’s presidential ambitions, stating that “he has no chance at all,” according to reports.