California Governor Gavin Newsom is pushing back after actress and Oscar winner Halle Berry delivered sharp criticism suggesting he “probably should not be our next president.” Berry’s comments, which quickly went viral online, were made during an interview in which she questioned Newsom’s leadership style and decision-making, claiming many Californians are “struggling more than ever.”

In response, Newsom stated that Berry “didn’t know the full context” of the issues she mentioned and emphasized that California continues to lead the nation in climate policy, economic innovation, and social protections. His spokesperson added that the governor “respects Halle Berry’s right to express her opinion,” but insists that many claims circulating online oversimplify complex state challenges.

The exchange has sparked intense debate across social media, with some siding with Berry’s blunt honesty while others argue she unfairly targeted Newsom amid growing speculation about his future national ambitions.