Gavin Newsom acknowledges Halle Berry's misunderstanding in accusing him of 'devaluing' women: 'We're working things out'

California Governor Gavin Newsom has responded to Halle Berry's recent remarks criticizing his stance on menopause care legislation. Speaking with reporters at Newark Airport, Newsom emphasized that his administration plans to include funding for the initiative in the upcoming 2026-27 budget.

"We have the ability to reconcile that, so we're reconciling," Newsom said. "She's not aware of the funding that's been allocated for next year."

The governor clarified that he had communicated with Berry's representatives and explained that the actress was unaware of the administrations forthcoming support for the proposal. Newsom added that efforts to address the issue were already underway.

Berry had previously expressed strong disapproval of Newsom, stating at the New York Times DealBook Summit on December 3 that he "shouldn't be our next president" because she felt his actions had "devalued women." Her comments followed Newsom's veto of the Menopause Care Equity Act AB 432 for a second consecutive year in October. The bill aimed to improve access to medical care for women experiencing menopause.

"Back in California, my governor, Gavin Newsom, vetoed the menopause bill twice," Berry said, highlighting her concerns about the impact on women in midlife. She noted that such decisions influenced her opinion on Newsom's suitability for higher office.

Newsom's office previously issued a statement praising Berry's advocacy for women's health and confirming plans to collaborate with her and other stakeholders. The statement explained that the veto was intended to prevent unintended increases in healthcare costs for working women, while reaffirming the administration's commitment to expanding access to menopause-related treatments.

Author: Caleb Jennings