Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry unleashed a powerful critique during her appearance at the prestigious Dealbook Summit on Wednesday, directly targeting California Governor Gavin Newsom. Berry passionately addressed the complex issues surrounding menopause care in healthcare plans and challenged how women are perceived within both Hollywood and corporate environments.

Speaking candidly about legislative battles concerning midlife women, Berry voiced strong condemnation against the governor’s actions. “Back in my great state of California,” she began, addressing a packed audience, “my very own Governor Gavin Newsom has vetoed our Menopause Bill, not one, but two years in succession.” Later in her speech, Berry offered harsh criticism regarding Gavin Newsom’s perceived disregard for women’s needs: “with the way he is overlooking half the population – women – by devaluing us during midlife, Governor Newsom should absolutely not be considered for our nation’s highest office.”

Adding fuel to the fire, Berry hinted at broader political implications stemming from Gavin Newsom’s current decisions. Just days after his remarks about a potential run in 2028, she seized upon this development.

The bill, formally designated AB 432 and championed by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan, was designed to ensure midlife women receive appropriate healthcare coverage for their unique needs. It mandated health insurers cover menopause-related treatments and required medical professionals undergo specialized training in this field. Its introduction marked a significant step towards improving care for an often overlooked demographic.

Governor Newsom publicly indicated months ago he is contemplating a presidential bid, and his recent comments confirmed that intention is alive and well amidst ongoing legislative efforts concerning women’s health. The timing of the latest veto alongside these ambitions created fertile ground for Berry’s scathing remarks against Gavin Newsom’s administration.