Disney vs DeSantis Feud Intensifies as Theme Park Files Suit
Disney vs DeSantis: It’s no secret that Disney and Florida Governor DeSantis have been engaged in an ongoing feud over the past year.
The global conglomerate, which brings roughly $75 billion in annual revenue, over 460,000 jobs, and billions in state tax revenue to Central Florida, has filed suit against DeSantis for a “targeted campaign of government retaliation.” This comes after Disney’s public opposition to a state law banning classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“Disney regrets that it has come to this,” the case says. “But having exhausted efforts to seek a resolution, the company is left with no choice but to file this lawsuit to protect its cast members, guests, and local development partners from a relentless campaign to weaponize government power against Disney in retaliation for expressing a political viewpoint unpopular with certain State officials.” (AP Newswire)
In response to the lawsuit, a spokesperson for the governor’s office states, “This lawsuit is yet another unfortunate example of their hope to undermine the will of the Florida voters and operate outside the bounds of the law.”
DeSantis imposed a takeover of Disney World’s self-governing district by appointing a new board of supervisors of his choosing. This committee oversees the municipal services at Disney World. The company circumvented this appointment by pushing through an 11th-hour arrangement that took power away from the new supervisors.
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The Disney vs DeSantis lawsuit requests for a federal judge to void the governor’s takeover, citing that it violates the company’s constitutional right to free speech and expression. The claim states that the interference from the governor’s office is “orchestrated at every step by Governor DeSantis as punishment for Disney’s protected speech—now threatens Disney’s business operations, jeopardizing its economic future in the region, and violates its constitutional rights.”
Recently, Disney also announced plans to host Gay Days Orlando, an annual Gay Pride event, as well as a queer business symposium, further incensing the governor. DeSantis has since “vowed additional retribution” in the form of additional proposals that could cause further zoning and operational issues for the resort and theme park. He has further suggested that he will propose to build a state prison near the park.
The Florida Senate passed a bill that would nullify agreements made by the Reedy Creek board before the state took over. This bill still needs House approval to move it forward.
Featured image credit: Charlotte Piper
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