LONDON (AP) — Renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking may have a good grasp of the workings of the universe, but he says he can't understand Donald Trump's popularity.
Hawking tells ITV's "Good Morning Britain" show that he has no explanation for the success of the presumptive Republican Party presidential nominee.
In a prerecorded interview set to air Tuesday, Hawking says Trump "is a demagogue who seems to appeal to the lowest common denominator."
Hawking, who speaks through a computer system operated with his cheek, also made a plea for British voters to choose to remain in the European Union in the June 23 referendum. He said it is important not only for economic and security research but also to further scientific research.
Hawking has a form of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, known as Lou Gehrig's disease, that has gradually paralyzed him since he was first diagnosed at age 21.