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Trump's remarks on learning disabilities draw criticism
Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that individuals with learning disabilities should not serve as president, reigniting his feud with California Governor Gavin Newsom over dyslexia. The comments prompted condemnation from advocacy groups and a sharp response from Newsom.
Trump's Oval Office comments
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump mocked Newsom, a potential Democratic presidential candidate, by referring to him as "Newscum"-a nickname he has used previously. Trump claimed Newsom had "admitted" to having learning disabilities and stated, "Honestly, I'm all for people with learning disabilities, but not for my president."
He added, "I think a president should not have learning disabilities, OK? And I know it's highly controversial to say such a horrible thing." Trump also described Newsom as having a "low IQ" and asserted that "everything about him is dumb."
Newsom fires back, defends dyslexia
Newsom responded on social media platform X, writing, "NO THANK YOU, WE BELIEVE IN FREE ELECTIONS!" in reference to Trump's apparent slip of the tongue when he called Newsom "the President of the United States."
Last month, Newsom openly discussed his dyslexia during a public conversation with the mayor of Atlanta, Georgia. He shared his struggles with reading and poor exam results, stating, "You've never seen me read a speech, because I cannot read a speech."
"I spoke about my dyslexia. I know that's hard for a brain-dead moron who bombs children and protects pedophiles to understand."
Gavin Newsom, via X
Advocacy group condemns Trump's statements
The National Center for Learning Disabilities (NCLD) criticized Trump's remarks, calling them "disturbing" and "strongly condemn[ing]" the former president's position. Jackie Rodriguez, the organization's chief executive, told the BBC that dyslexia does not impair intelligence, judgment, or leadership ability.
"In fact, people with learning disabilities have risen to the upper echelon of every public office in the United States, including former presidents."
Jackie Rodriguez, NCLD CEO
Dyslexia's prevalence and historical examples
Dyslexia, a learning condition that affects how the brain processes written language, impacts an estimated 15% to 20% of Americans, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Researchers have suggested that past U.S. presidents, including George Washington, John F. Kennedy, and Woodrow Wilson, may have had dyslexia.
Escalating political rhetoric
Trump also accused Newsom of racism, posting on Truth Social that the governor "can't read, has dyslexia, and has a mental disorder-A Cognitive Mess!" The exchange highlights the intensifying personal attacks between the two politicians as Newsom positions himself for a potential 2028 presidential run.
