DeSantis vs. Disney: Governor proposes Florida to control Reedy Creek
Disney has had a sweet deal in Florida for decades. It might not be long now.
Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is widely expected to run for president next year, deepened his feud with Disney on Friday with a plan to seize control of the board of directors of the company’s sprawling Florida estate — and the entertainment giants to do so to assume $700 million of outstanding debt.
Walt Disney World has enjoyed the privileges of a special government district called Reedy Creek since 1967.
“The corporate empire is dead,” Taryn Fenske, the governor’s director of communications, said in one expression. “Under the proposed legislation, Disney will no longer control its own government, live by the same laws as everyone else, be responsible for their outstanding debts, and pay their fair share of taxes.”
A notice posted on Osceola County’s website indicated that the proposed legislation would leave almost no aspect of Reedy Creek untouched. The Special District borders Osceola and Orange counties.
A state-controlled board, Fenske added, would ensure that Orange County cannot use Reedy Creek-related matters “as an excuse to levy taxes on Orange County residents.”
In April, DeSantis signed legislation drafted by state legislatures in a special session to disband all special districts such as Reedy Creek by June 2023. How this law would be brought into line with the new proposal was not immediately clear. The move was prompted by what the Republican governor saw as Disney’s criticism of a law he signed – dubbed by critics “don’t say gay” – that restricts elementary school teaching about gender identity.
“Disney can no longer have its own government or tax agency, and Disney — not taxpayers — must be responsible for all financial consequences,” former DeSantis chief of staff Adrian Lukis told Fox News. “While this will be painful for Disney, I expect companies across the state will be proud of their governor for making it clear that he doesn’t care who you are or how politically you are affiliated – nobody will.” special treatment in Florida.”
wealth reached out to Disney, but didn’t get an immediate response. Fox News first reported the development on Friday, citing sources in the governor’s office.
In his feud with Disney, DeSantis has shown a combative side that has resonated widely with Republicans, and many expect him to announce a presidential nomination this year, likely after Florida’s spring or summer legislature. Various polls show that the governor is leading ex-President Donald Trump in a head-to-head match for the GOP nomination, while Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced in November that he would nominate DeSantis for the White House would support.
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