Hollywood Just Became a Major Election Battlefront for Republicans (and Democrats)
Go woke, go broke? Disney sued Ron DeSantis, Donald Trump attacks the Florida governor for his dealings with Bob Iger, and suddenly Tinseltown is thrust into the 2024 presidential election.
There’s a war brewing between a politician gunning for a promotion and a politically-savvy chief executive with two shits to give. The smart money is already lining up behind the CEO.
Walt Disney shares ticked higher Tuesday after Bob Iger filed a lawsuit against Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for waging a “relentless campaign to weaponize government power” against the company amid a fight over a controversial classroom bill. The lawsuit says DeSantis “orchestrated at every step” a political vendetta to punish the Mouse House.
The roots of this conflict lie in the state's controversial "Don't Say Gay" bill, which drew criticism from former Disney's CEO Bob Chapek. DeSantis responded by ramping up his attacks on the company, culminating in his recent threat to build a prison on land adjacent to Walt Disney World.
While DeSantis may see this as a power play against a major corporation, it is a dangerous gamble for Florida's economy. Walt Disney World employs more than 75,000 workers, with massive plans to expand. It generates billions of dollars in revenue and attracts millions of visitors each year. Any action that threatens the company's presence in the state could have catastrophic consequences for Florida's tourism industry and overall economy.
DeSantis actions send a message to other companies that Florida may not be a welcoming place to do business. This could deter future investment and job creation, further harming the state's economy.