A California journalist seeking clarity on a sensitive claim received a shockingly blunt response from the governor’s office. Susan Crabtree, a resident of the state and a national correspondent, simply asked for documentation supporting Governor Newsom’s assertion of a lifelong battle with dyslexia.
Her inquiry, sent via email to the governor’s Director of Communications, Izzy Gardon, was straightforward and acknowledged the personal nature of learning disabilities. Crabtree noted the governor himself had recently referenced dyslexia while defending controversial statements made during a public appearance.
The journalist specifically requested any available paperwork from childhood, referencing Newsom’s previous statement about rediscovering a diagnosis after his father’s death. She also inquired about more recent medical confirmation, should earlier records be unavailable, offering to immediately publish any provided information to address growing criticism.
The response, however, was not one of transparency or reasoned explanation. Instead, Crabtree received a terse, profanity-laced dismissal. Gardon’s reply, delivered with startling directness, simply read: “Respectfully, fuck off.”
The incident ignited immediate backlash online, with commentators expressing disbelief at the unprofessional conduct. The response was widely criticized as arrogant and a blatant disregard for journalistic inquiry, particularly from a publicly funded office.
Questions quickly arose regarding the appropriateness of such behavior from a state employee, and whether established rules of conduct applied to the governor’s press office. The incident has fueled concerns about a lack of accountability and a pattern of dismissiveness towards legitimate questioning.
The exchange highlights a growing tension surrounding the governor’s public statements and the evidence supporting them. Crabtree’s initial request was rooted in a desire to provide accurate reporting, yet was met with hostility rather than information.
The incident has sparked a wider debate about transparency in government and the treatment of journalists seeking to hold public figures accountable. It raises serious questions about the standards of conduct expected from those in positions of power and their communication teams.
