Actor Mark Ruffalo criticized California Gov. Gavin Newsom over the governor’s opposition to a proposed one-time tax on billionaires, saying the position was disqualifying for a Democrat or Republican seeking higher office. Ruffalo’s remarks were posted on X on Friday, according to the source.
The dispute centers on two California ballot measures. Proposition 40 would levy a one-time tax of 5% of net worth on billionaires who were California residents on Jan. 1, 2026, if voters approve it. The tax would be due in 2027, with payments permitted over five years at an additional cost. The source says real estate, pensions and retirement accounts generally would not be subject to the tax.
Proposition 42, a separate measure on the Nov. 3 ballot, would bar the state from creating new taxes on ownership of financial assets and other personal property, as well as certain retroactive taxes. The source reports that approval of Proposition 42 could prevent Proposition 40 from taking effect. California voters are due to consider both measures at the ballot box.
Ruffalo made his comments while reposting a criticism of Newsom from Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat who supports the wealth tax. Khanna had objected to Newsom’s support for Proposition 42. His post included an image of an advertisement backed by Newsom urging voters to approve Proposition 42, according to the source.
The California Democratic Party has endorsed Proposition 40, but Newsom and other prominent Democrats oppose it, the source reports. Ruffalo accused the governor of prioritizing wealthy and corporate interests over working families. He also argued that Newsom should address economic pressures rather than cultivate a political image. Newsom has been discussed as a possible Democratic presidential candidate in 2028, according to the source.
The proposal has drawn criticism from other business figures. Billionaire Mark Cuban has spoken against the tax, the source says. California entrepreneur Eric Schiffer, chairman of Patriarch and chief executive of Reputation Management Consultants, previously told Fox Business that the measure could prompt entrepreneurs and business leaders to leave the state. Schiffer predicted a substantial outflow if the proposal passed.
Ruffalo urged Newsom to reconsider his stance, saying the governor should not spend political capital defending it. The source said Fox Business had contacted Newsom’s office for comment; it did not include a response.
