Trump says presidents 'should not have learning disabilities' as he mocks Newsom's dyslexia

March 17, 2026

President Trump recently attacked California Governor Gavin Newsom by asserting that individuals with learning disabilities, specifically dyslexia, should be disqualified from serving as president. Trump repeatedly mocked Newsom's publicly acknowledged dyslexia, calling him unintelligent and using disparaging nicknames during remarks to reporters. Newsom responded forcefully to the insults, while advocacy organizations strongly condemned Trump's statements as harmful and inaccurate.

Who is affected

Governor Gavin Newsom of California
President Donald Trump
People with dyslexia and learning disabilities (affecting 15-20% of Americans, approximately one in five people)
The National Center for Learning Disabilities
African-American voters (referenced in the context of Newsom's Atlanta remarks)

What action is being taken

Trump is making public statements and social media posts mocking Newsom's dyslexia
Newsom is responding to Trump's attacks through social media posts
The National Center for Learning Disabilities is condemning Trump's remarks publicly

Why it matters

This controversy matters because it perpetuates harmful stereotypes about learning disabilities and could stigmatize millions of Americans with dyslexia. Trump's remarks from the presidential office suggest that people with learning disabilities are less capable of leadership, despite evidence that dyslexia does not affect intelligence, judgment, or leadership ability. The exchange also demonstrates how disability discrimination can be weaponized in political discourse, potentially discouraging qualified individuals with learning disabilities from pursuing public service or leadership positions.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC