Entertainment News | News & Opinion
Florida's Governor is going toe to toe with Disneyland --- and the mouse is winning. The 50-year-running park is standing firm in its opposition to Florida's "Don't Say Gay" laws + other anti-LGBTQ legislation.
From June 13-15, Disneyland is set to host its inaugural LGBTQ Pride night. As part of the Disneyland After Dark series, the event takes place from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets will go on sale on April 20 for $139. The event's announcement comes amid several legislative hearings since March of this year, overseeing changes to LGBTQ and education rights within the state of Florida.
During this past Monday's press conference, the continued aversion from Gov. Rob DeSantis is evident, as he threatened retaliation against the major entertainment company. Higher taxes, road tolls, and increased park inspections are the mere surface of DeSantis penal actions and wielding of regulatory powers against Disney.
"Maybe create a state park, maybe try to do more amusement parks-- someone even said like, maybe you need another state prison," Gov. DeSantis said during the news conference.
"I think the possibilities are endless."
His condescending remarks follow Disney's latest political move to maintain is company's governance by swiftly imposing a 'royal clause'. The eleventh-hour vote came in response to DeSantis and fellow FL lawmakers passing previous legislation to take control of the theme park's self-controlled government. The clause would substantially limit control and oversight, enabling DeSantis' hand-selected Supervisory board to start their first day of work.
Several other Republican politicians are antagonizing Gov. DeSantis' Disney feud and proposed legislative actions. Former New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie feels he is attack against the small government is unprecedented.
"I don't think Ron DeSantis is conservative, based on his actions towards Disney, he told Semafor's Steve Clemmons during an interview.
"Where are we headed here now that, if you express disagreement in this country, the government is now going to punish you?"
“I’ll tell you this much, That’s not the guy I want sitting across from President Xi [Jinping] and negotiating our next agreement with China. Gov. DeSantis is expected to run in 2024's presidential race.
Impeached former President Donald Trump made a post on Truth Social mocking the governor, identifying is actions as political stunts. "DeSanctus is being absolutely destroyed by Disney", the indicted former President tweeted.
"His original P.R. plan fizzled, so now he’s going back with a new one in order to save face." Trump asserts that Disney’s will ultimately end its investment into the entire state Florida in the near future.
Disneyland has not yet made any official statements since Monday's press conference.