The Desantis-backed board that governs much of Walt Disney World’s voted to sue the theme park after the entertainment ain’t filed a lawsuit alleging “government retaliation” last week.
“Disney sued us, we have no choice now but to respond,” Martin Garcia, chair of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, said. “The district will seek justice in state court here in central Florida where both it and Disney reside and do business.”
Over the past 14 months, there has been a growing conflict between Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and Disney concerning a state law that prohibits the discussion of gender identity and sexual orientation in schools. The tensions have reached a boiling point in recent months, with the Republican governor attempting to take control of Disney’s special taxing district and replace the current board with his own appointees. Prior to the selection of the new board in February, Disney had come to terms with the outgoing board that restricted the influence of DeSantis’ selected members.
Last week, the newly appointed board made the decision to cancel the previous agreements, causing Disney to take legal action against DeSantis and the new board. In the lawsuit, Disney alleges that DeSantis is using his political influence to retaliate against the company for exercising its right to free speech.
