Halle Berry menopause advocacy has become a prominent talking point after the Academy Award winner criticized California Governor Gavin Newsom for his repeated vetoes of legislation that aimed to improve medical care for women going through menopause. Berry’s public denouncement, coming at a key political moment, adds further scrutiny to Newsom’s credentials as he considers a presidential run in 2028, raising questions about his commitment to women’s health issues.
Halle Berry Questions Newsom’s Presidential Ambitions
Berry’s criticisms centered on Newsom’s opposition to a bill that would have invested in better medical support for menopausal women, a topic she’s advocated for with growing urgency in recent years. At a high-profile New York Times DealBook Summit, she voiced her frustration with Newsom, highlighting the repercussions of his choices for women across California and potentially the nation.
“he probably should not be our next president either.”
– Halle Berry, Academy Award-winning actress
This pointed comment reflects not only Berry’s personal stance, but also her broader campaign for menopause awareness. Last year, she lent her expert endorsement to legislation introduced by Senators Patty Murray and Lisa Murkowski, urging increased education and research. Her position signals her unwavering belief that more needs to be done to support women in midlife.
Governor Newsom Defends His Veto Decisions
Governor Newsom’s office responded to criticism by justifying the decision to turn down the menopause bill, stating it would have resulted in higher healthcare expenses for millions of women in the workforce. Despite Berry’s public disappointment, Newsom’s representatives noted his respect for her efforts: they emphasized his wish to improve access to vital menopausal treatment, while expressing admiration for Berry’s activism.
This exchange unfolds as Newsom’s national profile grows: he has acknowledged considering a campaign for the White House in the 2028 election after his expected final term as California Governor concludes in January 2027. The recent controversy puts his approach to issues impacting women at the forefront of potential campaign challenges.
Berry’s Personal Investment in Men’s Health Advocacy
Berry’s motivation comes from her own experiences, as she has discussed her initial struggles with menopause and her lack of education on the subject. Her candid discussions with media and during public appearances—such as a revealing conversation with Drew Barrymore about how a health scare transformed her perspective—reinforce her determination that women deserve improved care as they age.
To advance this cause, Berry founded Respin Health, a company devoted to raising awareness and driving innovation in menopause care. Her advocacy aims to challenge outdated norms, insisting that women should not accept declining health as an unavoidable part of aging. She encouraged a new narrative around women’s health, stating that the time of women quietly enduring in poor health is over and better standards must be established.
Implications for Newsom and Women’s Healthcare Policy
This high-profile disagreement highlights the growing political importance of women’s health and the vocal advocacy of figures like Berry. As Newsom looks toward possible national ambitions, his record on healthcare issues, especially those affecting millions of women, will likely remain under scrutiny from voters and advocacy groups. Berry’s stance underscores that menopause care is gaining urgency in political discourse, and the expectations for leaders to prioritize these needs are higher than ever.
