The ongoing legal battle between The Walt Disney Company and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has taken another turn as Disney rejects DeSantis’ request for immunity in the case.[0] The dispute began when Disney filed a lawsuit against DeSantis and other Florida officials, accusing them of retaliation and violating the company’s right to free speech.[1] The initial lawsuit claimed that the Governor had engaged in a “relentless campaign to weaponize government power” against the company.[1]
Disney’s response to DeSantis’ motion to dismiss the case further emphasizes the question of whether the Governor and the State can escape accountability for their defiance of the nation’s cherished liberties.[2] The company argues that the new laws passed in Florida, including the dissolution of the Reedy Creek Improvement District and transportation laws impacting the inspection of the Disney World Monorail, are retaliatory measures enacted because of Disney’s opposition to the “Don’t Say Gay” law.[3]
The battle between Disney and DeSantis has escalated with both sides making bold moves. Disney has requested a court date on July 15, 2024, which coincides with the Republican National Convention.[4] On the other hand, DeSantis has been pushing for a trial to be held after the 2024 Presidential Election.[5] The proposed cuts by the governor-appointed board of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, which is embroiled in the legal dispute with Disney, have raised concerns about the future of security measures at Disney World.
The feud between Disney and DeSantis has drawn attention due to the high stakes involved. Disney is a major economic driver in Florida, bringing in billions in tourism revenue, and any actions that harm the company could have significant consequences. The dispute over the “Don’t Say Gay” law has also sparked a larger debate about free speech and parental rights.
As the legal battle continues, it remains to be seen how the court will rule and what impact it will have on the relationship between Disney and the state of Florida. Both sides are digging in their heels, with Disney accusing DeSantis of evading responsibility and the Governor pushing back against what he sees as interference from an out-of-state corporation. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching implications for the rights of corporations and the limits of government power.
0. “Disney rejects Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis’ attempt to leave lawsuit” USA TODAY, 28 Jul. 2023, https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/07/28/disney-rejects-desantis-lawsuit/70482753007/
1. “Disney Responds to Governor DeSantis Lawsuit Dismissal Request” DAPS MAGIC, 26 Jul. 2023, https://dapsmagic.com/2023/07/disney-responds-to-governor-desantis-lawsuit-dismissal-request/
2. “Disney Rejects Ron DeSantis’ Desire To Kill Retaliation Suit; “The Governor Seeks To Evade Responsibility For His Actions,” Mouse House Says” Deadline, 26 Jul. 2023, https://deadline.com/2023/07/disney-lawsuit-ron-desantis-bob-iger-dismissal-response-1235448642/
3. “Disney’s Lawyers Just Accused Governor DeSantis Of Being In ‘Open Defiance Of Our Nation’s Most Cherished Liberties'” CinemaBlend, 27 Jul. 2023, https://www.cinemablend.com/theme-parks/disneys-lawyers-accused-governor-desantis-open-defiance-nations-most-cherished-liberties
4. “DeSantis Tries to Kill Disney Suit” Disney Dining, 27 Jul. 2023, https://www.disneydining.com/desantis-tries-to-kill-disney-suit-sw1/
5. “NEWS: Disney Insists DeSantis Lawsuit Should Happen Before 2024 Election” AllEars.Net, 26 Jul. 2023, https://allears.net/2023/07/26/disney-insists-desantis-lawsuit-should-happen-before-2024-election/
