Long considered a favorite of Hollywood elites, California Gov. Gavin Newsom is now facing public criticism from within the entertainment industry itself — raising fresh questions about his leadership as national ambitions continue to swirl.
Oscar-winning actress Halle Berry has made clear she would not support Newsom in a potential presidential run, citing what she described as a broken promise and a troubling approach to women’s health issues.
Berry’s frustration centers on Newsom’s decision to veto legislation that would have required insurance coverage for established menopause treatments. After the veto, Berry says she personally confronted the governor and was assured he would follow up with her concerns — something she says never happened.
In an interview with The Cut, Berry expressed disappointment over the lack of communication, saying it was troubling when elected officials fail to follow through on their commitments.
She also issued a pointed warning aimed at Newsom’s broader political future. Berry argued that any leader seeking the presidency cannot afford to overlook issues affecting women, adding that leadership requires action, not just rhetoric.
Newsom’s office responded by pushing back on the criticism, calling Berry’s comments “very unfortunate.” A spokesperson noted that the governor has since proposed menopause-related health coverage through California’s state budget, consistent with language included in his original veto message for AB 432.
According to the governor’s office, the proposal would require health insurance plans to cover FDA-approved menopause treatments — including hormone-replacement therapy and non-hormonal options — for policies issued or renewed after July 1.
This is not the first time Berry has publicly taken issue with Newsom. In late 2025, she raised similar concerns during remarks at the New York Times DealBook Summit, where she accused the governor of undervaluing women and questioned whether his record should qualify him for higher office.
At the time, Berry argued that dismissing the needs of women — who make up roughly half the population — should be disqualifying for anyone seeking the presidency.
Following those remarks, Newsom said he appreciated Berry’s advocacy and suggested the two were working toward common ground. But weeks later, Berry maintains that the promised outreach never came.
For a governor often portrayed as a polished, media-savvy leader with strong celebrity backing, the episode highlights a growing challenge. As talk of a national campaign increases, even longtime allies are beginning to scrutinize whether Newsom’s actions match his carefully crafted image.