After threats against Florida governor Disney announced that it was abandoning a plan to build a $900 million complex next to the Walt Disney World theme park it operates in Florida as a result of a bitter political conflict with the state’s governor. Ron DeSandis.

The U.S. entertainment giant, which has taken cost-cutting measures, cites the unfavorable business climate in Florida following the announcement of the 2021 plan and the changing economic climate, according to a memo sent to employees.

“For these reasons, we have decided not to proceed with campus construction,” Josh D’Amaro, head of Disney theme parks, wrote in a memo, referring to the company’s plan to relocate thousands of employees from California to Florida.

How did the feud start?

The decision is not independent of the recent political tensions between the American giant and the leadership of the state of Florida.

State officials under Republican Gov. Ron DeSandis say the company is too progressive after Disney publicly denounced a state bill in 2022 that would restrict the teaching of sexual orientation and gender identity in Florida elementary schools.

In response, the Florida governor and rising star of the American right, who launched an offensive against the culture of the “woke up”, in February stripped Disney of the special status that he had enjoyed in the state of Florida since the 1960s, including administrative offices, self-government. -government of the theme park area, concessional lending, etc.

“Purposeful revenge” with workers as victims

At the same time, Ron DeSandis publicly announced his plan to build a prison next to Disney World and impose additional taxes on the park’s hotels, which employ 75,000 people and attract 50 million tourists annually.

Disney responded with legal action, believing it was “targeted revenge” against him as punishment for exercising “freedom of expression”.

“Does the government want us to invest more, hire more and pay more taxes?” said Disney Chairman and CEO Bob Iger.

Right-wing populist figure in the US Ron DeSandis is seen as Donald Trump’s biggest competitor for the Republican nomination, and according to US media reports, he is likely to run for office in the coming days.

In a sign of the political significance of the conflict with Disney, Donald Trump accused Ron DeSandis of claiming that he “single-handedly” lost the Disney group’s investment because the governor was “too weak to fight for his state.” “Ron DeSandis’ losing battle with Disney didn’t help his shady and unconvincing campaign.”

The Star Wars Hotel in Florida is also closing.

As it became known, the American company will also close the Galactic Starcruiser themed hotel, which is inspired by the Star Wars film series and was opened a year ago in Florida.

Criticism within the American right is already mounting as many Republicans speak of a crackdown on business that runs counter to their party’s traditions.

Republican Carlos Curbelo, a former Miami representative in the House of Representatives, said the Florida governor has tarnished his own record and is preventing businesses from coming and investing in Florida.

Source: APE-MEB