Halle Berry has drawn a line in the sand against California Governor Gavin Newsom, vowing not to back his expected presidential bid in 2028.

Halle Berry, the 60-year-old actress, recently expressed her frustration with Newsom for vetoing a bill last year that aimed to secure insurance coverage for proven menopause treatments, known as the Menopause Care Act or AB 432. She confronted him over the decision, claiming he promised to follow up but failed to do so.

Newsom’s office countered on Monday, describing her comments as “very unfortunate” and highlighting a new state budget proposal to support menopause care, which would mandate coverage for FDA-approved treatments like hormone-replacement therapy and non-hormonal medication for new or renewed policies after July 1.

Berry's Public Stand Against Newsom

The issue has sparked heated debate, with many questioning whether Newsom’s actions align with the needs of half the population—women—who face real health challenges like menopause.

As reported by the New York Post, Berry first voiced her criticism of Newsom in December 2025, accusing him of sidelining women’s issues by rejecting the bill. She didn’t hold back at the New York Times DealBook Summit, suggesting his record on women’s concerns disqualifies him from higher office.

She told The Cut, “It’s disturbing when people say they’re going to do things and then don’t.” This isn’t just a personal slight; it’s a reflection of a deeper disconnect between politicians and the people they claim to serve.

Newsom's Response Falls Flat

Newsom’s team tried to smooth things over, with a spokesperson pointing to a fresh proposal tied to the state budget as proof of his commitment. But Berry isn’t buying it, noting that more than a month after Newsom claimed they were on a path to reconciliation, he still hasn’t reached out as promised.

At the DealBook Summit, Berry delivered a pointed jab: “He’s not going to be governor forever, and the way he has overlooked women, half the population, by devaluing us, he probably should not be our next president either. Just saying.” Her words cut to the core of a growing frustration with leaders who prioritize optics over action.

Let’s be clear: menopause isn’t some niche issue to be swept under the rug. When insurance won’t cover proven treatments, women are left to suffer in silence while bureaucrats play politics.

Women’s Issues Take Center Stage

Newsom’s veto of AB 432 was a misstep in a cultural climate where pandering to every trendy cause often overshadows real, tangible needs. His new proposal might look like a fix, but the timing reeks of damage control rather than genuine concern.

Berry’s warning that Newsom “can’t sleep on women” if he eyes a 2028 presidential run is a wake-up call. Politicians on the left love to lecture about equity, yet when it comes to women’s health, they’re often nowhere to be found.

The hypocrisy is glaring. While progressive leaders champion abstract social justice causes, they fumble on practical matters like ensuring women can access basic medical care without breaking the bank.

Political Implications for Newsom

For Newsom, this isn’t just about one bill or one actress—it’s about credibility. If he can’t reconcile with a high-profile advocate like Berry, how can he expect to win over millions of voters who feel ignored on everyday issues?

Berry’s stance resonates with a broader sentiment that politicians must stop treating women’s health as an afterthought. The left’s obsession with ideological purity often leaves real problems—like affordable menopause care—unaddressed.

Looking ahead to a potential 2028 run, Newsom needs to rethink his priorities. Voters aren’t fooled by last-minute proposals; they want leaders who act decisively, not reactively, when the spotlight turns hot.