Halle Berry Challenges Newsom Over Menopause Bill Vetoes

Hollywood star Halle Berry delivered a pointed critique of California Governor Gavin Newsom on Wednesday at the New York Times’ DealBook Summit. She asserted that Newsom’s repeated vetoes of the Menopause Care Equity Act disqualify him, stating he “probably should not be our next president.” Berry’s comments have ignited a political debate, focusing renewed attention on women’s health legislation and Newsom’s potential 2028 presidential aspirations.

The controversy centers on Assembly Bill 432 (AB 432), also known as the Menopause Care Equity Act. This legislation was designed to expand health insurance coverage for menopause and perimenopause treatments throughout California. It also sought to mandate related healthcare provider training, a measure proponents argued was essential for addressing often-overlooked women’s health needs.

However, Governor Newsom vetoed the bill for a second consecutive year in October 2025. He cited concerns that the bill was “too far-reaching” and would ultimately increase healthcare costs for women, according to an unknown source. Berry, who owns Respin Health—a women’s wellness business focused on “redefining menopause and longevity”—has become a vocal advocate for these issues, lending a significant celebrity voice to the discussion about halle berry newsom menopause.

Speaking with clear frustration, Halle Berry explicitly linked Newsom’s actions on the menopause bill to his broader political suitability. She asserted that by “devaluing” women in midlife through his vetoes, Newsom had overlooked half the population.

“Back in my great state of California, my very own governor, Gavin Newsom, has vetoed our menopause bill, not one but two years in a row… the way he has overlooked women, half the population, by devaluing us, he probably should not be our next president either. Just saying.”

— Halle Berry, Actress and Women’s Health Advocate

Berry underscored her personal investment in the issue, adding, “At this stage in my life, I have zero f***s left to give.” Later that same day, a spokesperson for Governor Newsom responded, expressing admiration for Berry’s advocacy. The spokesperson reiterated Newsom’s commitment to improving access to menopause care but defended the veto.

“The Governor has deep admiration for Ms. Berry’s advocacy and looks forward to working with her and other stakeholders on this critical issue. He shares her goal of expanding access to menopause care that too many women struggle to get. He vetoed the bill because, as written, it would have unintentionally raised health care costs for millions of working women already stretched thin — something he’s determined to avoid.”

— Newsom Spokesperson

The bill, AB 432, aimed for comprehensive insurance coverage and provider training. Supporters maintain these measures would alleviate significant financial and diagnostic burdens many women experience during menopause and perimenopause.

This high-profile confrontation from Halle Berry could have notable political reverberations for Gavin Newsom, particularly as he weighs a potential 2028 presidential run. His commitment to women’s health issues will undoubtedly face increased scrutiny from potential voters and political rivals alike within California politics and beyond. The public spotlight on the Menopause Care Equity Act also signals continued advocacy for improved women’s health legislation in California and potentially nationwide. Advocates, spurred by Berry’s outspoken stance on halle berry newsom menopause, are likely to continue pressing for reforms, ensuring menopause care remains a prominent issue in future legislative sessions.