Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has reportedly asked Disney to drop its ongoing lawsuit against him, claiming that he’s “basically moved on” from the dispute. This plea follows numerous unsuccessful attempts by his legal team to counter the legal onslaught from the multinational entertainment conglomerate. Above the Law discussed the legal back-and-forths between the governor and Disney, demonstrating the stark contrast in their approaches.
DeSantis’s quarrel with Disney began after Disney CEOs expressed their objection to the “Don’t Say Gay” bill backed by DeSantis. In retaliation, DeSantis initially tried to dismantle the Reedy Creek Improvement District, which governs Disney’s property around its parks. However, he soon discovered that this would result in a substantial financial burden for Florida taxpayers. Instead, DeSantis opted to replace the board members of the quasi-government with personal allies. This move, he believed, would allow him to exert control over Disney’s land. Rolling Stone reported on these appointments, including one board member who holds unusual beliefs about fluoride in tap water.
Disney responded to these maneuvers by setting in motion a series of contracts that would allow it to retain authority over its land at least 21 years after the last living descendant of King Charles III has passed away. DeSantis, seeking to invalidate these contracts, pushed through a law that made the existing state case moot. He then hoped that Bob Iger, the executive chairman of Disney, would choose to drop the federal lawsuit that followed.
“They’re going to lose that lawsuit, so what I would say is: Drop the lawsuit,” DeSantis stated. This transparent tactic did not deter Disney. The company’s lawyers claim DeSantis has engaged in unconstitutional retaliation against their client’s political speech, an allegation DeSantis refutes.
While DeSantis was likely expecting his conflict with Disney to boost his political reputation among the GOP voters, instead, he’s facing significant backlash and falling poll numbers. In light of this, DeSantis now seems to want the dispute to be forgotten, despite his campaign slogan of “Never Back Down”. However, the fate of the lawsuit now lies in the hands of Disney, a company known for not backing down when it comes to defending its interests.
Further reading on DeSantis vs. Disney:
– Supreme Court Subtweets Ron DeSantis That He’s Totally Losing To Disney
– Disney Litigators Take Their Turn Beating The Hell Out Of Ron DeSantis With New Federal Lawsuit
– Judge In Disney’s Case Against Ron DeSantis Recuses Himself