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Stephen Hawking baffled by dynamics of Trump’s popularity

In this May 27, 2016, photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures while speaking at a rally in Fresno, Calif. China is a frequent target for Trump, who accuses the country of stealing American jobs and cheating at global trade. Trump is only now emerging as a public figure in China, where many people appreciate his focus on economic issues rather than human rights and political freedoms. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)
In this May 27, 2016, photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures while speaking at a rally in Fresno, Calif. China is a frequent target for Trump, who accuses the country of stealing American jobs and cheating at global trade. Trump is only now emerging as a public figure in China, where many people appreciate his focus on economic issues rather than human rights and political freedoms. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson) In this May 27, 2016, photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures while speaking at a rally in Fresno, Calif. China is a frequent target for Trump, who accuses the country of stealing American jobs and cheating at global trade. Trump is only now emerging as a public figure in China, where many people appreciate his focus on economic issues rather than human rights and political freedoms. (AP Photo/Chris Carlson)

LONDON (AP) – Stephen Hawking understands the workings of the universe – but says he cannot fathom the popularity of Donald Trump.

The British astrophysicist told ITV’s morning show Monday that the presumptive Republican Party candidate for U.S. president “is a demagogue who seems to appeal to the lowest common denominator.”

Hawking also appealed to British voters to vote to keep the United Kingdom inside the European Union in a June 23 referendum. He said remaining within the EU provided essential support for British scientific research as well as its economy and security.

He said: “Gone are the days we could stand on our own against the world. We need to be part of a larger group of nations, both for our security and our trade.”