Rapper Nicki Minaj has publicly criticised California Governor Gavin Newsom, accusing him of adopting a condescending tone toward Black audiences during a recent speaking engagement in Georgia.
The criticism followed Newsom’s appearance at an event promoting his memoir, Young Man in a Hurry, where he spoke about personal challenges, including living with dyslexia. Clips from the event circulated widely on social media platform X, prompting a strong reaction from Minaj.
In a series of posts, the rapper argued that Newsom’s remarks and delivery style were patronising. Responding to a video from the event, Minaj wrote that the governor attempted to connect with Black voters by emphasising his academic struggles and adjusting his speech in what she described as a dismissive manner.
During the discussion, Newsom reflected on overcoming learning difficulties and referenced his low SAT scores while addressing the audience. “I’m like you. I’m no better than you,” he said while explaining how he navigated challenges related to dyslexia.
Some online commentary initially suggested the event audience was predominantly Black. However, additional footage showing attendees arriving indicated a racially diverse crowd. A clip shared by Minaj featured Newsom alongside Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, though the audience itself was not visible.
Minaj’s latest remarks come amid what observers describe as a broader shift in her political commentary on social media. The artist has previously criticised Newsom over policies relating to transgender youth.
Meanwhile, a recent report by Politico alleged that some of Minaj’s online posts received amplification from what it characterised as a coordinated network of automated social media accounts.