Disney sues Ron DeSantis over 'government retaliation'

Last year, Ron DeSantis tried to take control of Disney. Photo: Orlando Sentinel/Tribune News Service

Disney filed a lawsuit against Ron DeSantis on Wednesday, alleging that Florida's governor launched a «targeted government retaliation campaign.»

It was the latest development in an increasingly a bitter feud between the entertainment giant and a Republican governor.

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts has filed a lawsuit to overturn Mr. DeSantis's attempts to seize control of its theme parks in Orlando.

The statement said: “Disney regrets that it has come to this. But after exhausting efforts to find a solution, 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 point. vision. unpopular with some government officials.”

No comment from Mr. DeSantis, who is on an overseas trade mission.

Efforts The Florida governor began to exercise control over Disney last year when the company criticized a state law that banned discussion of sexuality and gender identity in classrooms in schools.

Florida has revoked Disney's self-governing authority and stripped it of its right to develop 25,000 acres of land. where its theme parks are located.

Bob Iger, CEO of Disney, called the action against the company, which employs 75,000 people in the state, «against the business» and «against Florida.»

The lawsuit was filed in the US District Court for the Northern District of Florida. It alleged that Disney's free speech rights had been violated.

The complaint stated that Disney had «an immeasurable impact on Florida and its economy», attracting tens of millions of visitors from all over the world every year.

It reads: «A targeted campaign of government retaliation orchestrated at every turn by Governor DeSantis as punishment for Disney's protected speech is now threatening Disney's business operations, endangering its economic future in the region, and violating its constitutional rights.» .

The dispute could boost Republican support for Mr. DeSantis, who is the party's leading contender for the 2024 presidential nomination. A Reuters/Ipsos poll showed that 44% of Republicans have a more favorable opinion. because of his quarrel with Disney.