Story perspectives

Newsom's Controversial Pose Sparks Backlash Amid 2028 Aspirations

12/9/2025

Summary

Story summary

Gavin Newsom, California Governor, faced intense ridicule for his sharply crossed-leg sitting pose at The New York Times DealBook Summit.
Newsom's team released an AI-generated image of him in a bizarre pose, which intensified the mockery.
Actress Halle Berry criticized Newsom for vetoing the Menopause Care Equity Act, saying he devalues women.
Despite attempts to reconcile with Berry, the episode complicates Newsom's image as he eyes a 2028 presidential run.

History

Historical Context

In 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed the Menopause Care Equity Act, which aimed to enhance women's healthcare access. This decision faced backlash from figures like Halle Berry, reflecting a historical pattern of political leaders criticized for neglecting women's health issues. This controversy echoes the 1972 Title IX legislation, which sought to address gender inequality in education and may impact Newsom's 2028 presidential ambitions.

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Story summary

Gavin Newsom, California Governor, faced intense ridicule for his sharply crossed-leg sitting pose at The New York Times DealBook Summit.
Newsom's team released an AI-generated image of him in a bizarre pose, which intensified the mockery.
Actress Halle Berry criticized Newsom for vetoing the Menopause Care Equity Act, saying he devalues women.
Despite attempts to reconcile with Berry, the episode complicates Newsom's image as he eyes a 2028 presidential run.

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