Newsom aide to reporter who questioned governor’s dyslexia diagnosis: ‘F— off’
The Hill
by Ryan ManciniFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A staffer for California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) responded harshly to a reporter's inquiry about the governor's dyslexia diagnosis, telling her to "f— off" during an email exchange. The incident occurred after Susan Crabtree, a correspondent for Real Clear Politics, asked about Newsom's dyslexia following discussions about his SAT scores. This exchange has sparked controversy and raised questions about media interactions with political officials.
The governor previously discussed his dyslexia in the context of advocating for education reforms, including universal kindergarten readiness programs. However, this latest development has drawn criticism for its lack of professionalism and transparency. Critics argue that such behavior undermines public trust and sets a concerning precedent for how government communications teams engage with journalists.
This incident highlights broader tensions between media and politics, particularly under scrutiny over personal details of public figures. It also raises questions about accountability in political communication and the importance of maintaining respectful dialogue between officials and reporters. For readers interested in politics, this story underscores the challenges of accessing information and the potential consequences of poor communication strategies in high-profile roles.
Ultimately, the controversy reflects deeper issues surrounding transparency, media relations, and public perception in modern governance. As news cycles continue to prioritize such stories, it remains crucial for leaders to navigate delicate topics with care and consideration for public discourse.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/24/2026