Trump says presidents ‘should not have learning disabilities’ in swipe at Newsom

PoliticsOpinion
17 Mar 2026 • 4:57 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Donald Trump has repeatedly attacked California Governor Gavin Newsom over his dyslexia, claiming the condition should disqualify him from the presidency.
  • Trump stated he is 'all for people with learning disabilities, but not for my president,' and referred to Newsom as having a 'low IQ' and being 'dumb'.
  • Newsom mocked Trump online after the politician mistakenly referred to him as 'the president of the United States'.
  • Critics condemned Trump's remarks as inappropriate and offensive, with some drawing parallels to his past derogatory comments about people with disabilities.
  • The attacks are part of an escalating rivalry between Trump and Newsom, who has been promoting a new memoir ahead of a potential 2028 presidential run.

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