Disney has outplayed Ron DeSantis by leaning on a decades-old royal clause
In February, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis moved to take over Disney World’s governing body.
It was all in retaliation to the company’s public stance against the state’s “Don’t Say Gay” bill.
But now, new reports suggest this whole plan may have backfired.
Members of the new governor-appointed board argue the previous members stripped the board of its power before they left.
It was all part of an agreement, which was approved a day before DeSantis assumed more control of the land around Disney’s theme park.
Disney is leaning on a property law which essentially makes the company the government of the area.
New board member Ron Peri says the board has lost the majority of its ability to do anything beyond maintain the roads and basic infrastructure.
For just under six decades, Disney has operated its expansive theme park and resort in Florida under a specially designated district.
A board oversaw the area and had free reign of development processes.
Disney also had the authority to appoint district board members.
But this special status came under threat when Disney clashed with DeSantis and his “Don’t Say Gay” law.
Florida lawmakers the passed a bill in February to end Disney’s self-governing status and give the governor the authority to appoint new board members to the district.
DeSantis appointed five supervisors, including a parents’ rights activist and three Republican donors.
But the new supervisors say previous board members entered an agreement before they left their positions – effectively stripping them of any powers. #trending #featured
