Wednesday, March 29, 2023

Disney pulls the rug from under Ron DeSantis takeover attempt with major power play

Florida Gov Ron DeSantis


From The Associated Press:

Board members picked by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis to oversee the governance of Walt Disney World said Wednesday that their Disney-controlled predecessors pulled a fast one on them by passing restrictive covenants that strip the new board of many of its powers. The current supervisors of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District said at a meeting that their predecessors last month signed a development agreement with the company that gave Disney maximum developmental power over the theme park resort’s 27,000 acres in central Florida. 

 The five supervisors were appointed by the Republican governor to the board after the Florida Legislature overhauled Disney’s government in retaliation for the entertainment giant publicly opposing so-called “Don’t Say Gay” legislation that bars instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade, as well as lessons deemed not age-appropriate.

 In taking on Disney, DeSantis furthered his reputation as a culture warrior willing to battle perceived political enemies and wield the power of state government to accomplish political goals, a strategy that is expected to continue ahead of his potential White House run.

 

Florida Gov Ron DeSantis chose to play a game with the Disney Corporation - while exploiting homophobia - to bolster his image before the 2024 election. Now he is learning that a billion dollar corporation generally plays for keeps. 

He was probably expected a neat victory, but now he is in for a long war. And don't think that his more than likely opponent for the GOP presidential nomination isn't taking note

No comments: