Summary (tl;dr)

Halle Berry has publicly criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for twice vetoing a menopause care bill, stating that his actions demonstrate a disregard for women's health and suggesting he is unfit for a potential presidential run.

Essential Background

Halle Berry has become a vocal advocate for women's health, particularly focusing on menopause care through her health company, Respin. California Governor Gavin Newsom had previously vetoed a similar menopause care bill in 2024, citing concerns about healthcare costs.

The Full Story

On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at The New York Times DealBook Summit in New York City, actress Halle Berry delivered a strong critique of California Governor Gavin Newsom. Berry condemned Newsom's repeated vetoes of the Menopause Care Equity Act, which aimed to mandate comprehensive health insurance coverage for menopause and perimenopause symptoms and require specific medical training for providers. She argued that Newsom's decisions reflect a devaluation of women in midlife and asserted that "he probably should not be our next president either." Her comments, delivered just hours before Governor Newsom's own scheduled appearance at the same event, reportedly elicited gasps from the audience. Newsom's office responded by stating the governor supports the issue but rejected the bill due to concerns about increased healthcare costs.

Why It Matters

This trend underscores the growing political attention on women's health issues, particularly menopause, and leverages a prominent celebrity's voice to highlight a topic often stigmatized and overlooked. Berry's direct challenge to a potential presidential candidate like Governor Newsom could intensify public and political pressure to prioritize comprehensive menopause care, acknowledging its significant impact on women's well-being, careers, and the broader economy.

Geographic Location

• Jazz at Lincoln Center, New York City, New York County, New York, United States (Halle Berry's public criticism of Governor Gavin Newsom at The New York Times DealBook Summit)
• Sacramento, Sacramento County, California, United States (Governor Gavin Newsom's vetoes of the Menopause Care Equity Act)