Newsom Fires Back At Halle Berry
California Gov. Gavin Newsom is under serious fire after once again vetoing a bipartisan bill designed to expand menopause-related care for millions of women. The legislation, championed by actress and women’s health advocate Halle Berry, would have increased access to evaluations and treatment options for perimenopause and menopause — a major concern for women in midlife and beyond.
For older women already battling high medical costs, Newsom’s decision has sparked outrage, frustration, and serious questions about his priorities.
Newsom Claims Bill Will Return in 2026 Budget—But Critics Aren’t Convinced
While speaking to a TMZ reporter at Newark International Airport, Newsom insisted the proposal isn’t dead: “We’re reconciling that. I’ve included it in the budget next year. She didn’t know that.”
But many see this as political damage control, especially as Newsom continues testing the waters for a potential presidential run.
Conservative women — including many lifelong Democrats — say they feel dismissed by yet another veto on an issue that directly affects half the population.
Halle Berry Slams Newsom: ‘He Vetoed It Two Years in a Row’
At The New York Times DealBook Summit, Berry unloaded her frustration, calling out Newsom’s repeated refusal to sign the bill.
“My very own governor… has vetoed our menopause bill, not one but two years in a row,” Berry said. “And with the way he’s overlooked women in midlife, he probably should not be our next president either.”
Her remarks resonated deeply with women across the country — particularly those 45+ who know firsthand how menopause symptoms affect daily life, work, and long-term health.
Newsom’s Team Says He’s Trying to ‘Control Health Costs’ — But Many Women Aren’t Buying It
Newsom spokesperson Izzy Gardon told Mediaite that the governor blocked the bill because it could “unintentionally raise health care costs for millions of working women.”
But critics argue that ignoring menopause care already strains women financially, physically, and emotionally.
With inflation still squeezing families, many women see Newsom’s explanation as tone-deaf at best.
Bipartisan Support Didn’t Matter — Newsom Said ‘No’ Twice
Despite strong bipartisan backing in both 2024 and 2025, Newsom vetoed the Menopause Care Equity Act each time it reached his desk.
The bill would have required insurance plans to cover:
- Menopause evaluations
- Perimenopause diagnosis
- Evidence-based treatment options
- Prescription drug coverage for related symptoms
For millions of women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, this legislation could have provided essential relief, better medical access, and long-overdue acknowledgment of their health needs.
Halle Berry’s Advocacy Continues as Women Demand Real Answers
Berry, who founded the women’s health organization Respin in 2020, has pushed for increased research and public awareness around menopause. She has become a national voice for women who feel overlooked by political leaders — especially in states like California where health care costs continue to climb.
Her message is resonating with a key demographic: women over 50, one of the most influential voting blocs in the country.
Is Newsom Losing Support From Older Female Voters?
As the governor floats his national political ambitions, the fallout from this decision could be significant. Women navigating menopause and midlife health challenges are paying attention — and many are openly questioning whether Newsom understands or values their priorities.
With 2026 budget talks and 2028 speculation already heating up, the spotlight on Newsom’s choices is only growing brighter.
