Consultant Leads Opposition to California Wealth Tax

Ned Wigglesworth, who previously advocated against the political influence of wealthy individuals, is now a leading strategist for the "Building a Better California" campaign, which opposes Proposition 40. This November ballot measure proposes a one-time 5% tax on Californians with a net worth of $1 billion or more. The opposition campaign has attracted significant financial backing from prominent Silicon Valley figures, including Google cofounder Sergey Brin, who contributed over $100 million. Venture capitalist John Doerr and crypto billionaire Chris Larsen have also provided funding to committees actively fighting the proposed tax. To support its efforts, "Building a Better California" has already reserved $87 million for advertising leading up to the vote. The shift in Wigglesworth's professional focus, from challenging the political power of the wealthy to aiding them in resisting a tax on their fortunes, is notable. The San Francisco Standard has characterized him as a "billionaire whisperer," with anonymous colleagues describing him as deeply embedded in Sacramento's lobbying circles. Wigglesworth's career trajectory, as indicated by his LinkedIn profile, includes extensive experience in communications and public affairs. He has served as the founding partner and CEO of Spectrum Campaigns for over a decade and previously held vice president roles at Goddard Claussen/West and the California Medical Association, as well as a partner position at Redwood Pacific Public Affairs. It is presumed that Wigglesworth's client base has evolved over time towards entities more aligned with the interests of billionaires. He did not respond to requests for comment from Fortune. Wigglesworth's professional evolution mirrors a persistent dynamic within California politics, where the state has simultaneously generated immense wealth and demonstrated a political inclination to tax it, while also depending on the very individuals and corporations responsible for that economic prosperity. Governor Gavin Newsom has navigated this complex landscape, balancing the state's need for revenue with the economic contributions of its wealthiest residents and businesses. The debate over Proposition 40 highlights the ongoing tension between wealth concentration and the desire for equitable taxation in California.