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After pausing its political donations in Florida due to controversy surrounding the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, Disney has begun making contributions once more. The company, renowned for its influence within Florida politics and its extensive Orlando-based theme parks, had previously halted donations following employee dissent over the legislation formally known as the Parental Rights in Education bill.
Reports from the Orlando Sentinel indicate that the latest contributions totaling $87,000 have been made to lawmakers who supported the law restricting classroom discussions on LGBTQ+ topics in public schools up to the third grade. These lawmakers include state Rep. Josie Tomkow, state Sen. Jason Brodeur, and state Sen. Joe Gruters, all Republicans who voted in favor of the law.
Disney has yet to formally comment on these contributions.
Despite criticism from conservative circles regarding Disney’s presumed liberal agenda, the media giant did not openly oppose the “Don’t Say Gay” law at its inception. This lack of action provoked protests from Disney employees, compelling the company to halt political donations, announce its support for LGBTQ+ employees and families, and suspend all political donations in March 2022.
Formerly one of the top donors in Florida’s political sphere (with $55 million donated over 28 years), Disney’s relationship with the state notably waned after it challenged the law. This led to a retaliatory move by Governor Ron DeSantis and GOP legislators who revoked Disney’s special tax benefits and sought further punitive measures against the company and its staff. Disney retaliated with a lawsuit, though it eventually settled with the state, subsequently scaling back its legal actions.
Since the settlement, the relationship between Disney and the DeSantis administration has warmed, resulting in the designation of former legislative director Stephanie Kopelousos to the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (CFTOD), possibly as an appeasement. The company also secured an agreement to invest $17 billion in Disney World developments over the next 15 years without state interference.
As negotiations continue regarding Disney’s special status—which allows it to function almost autonomously, including tax exemptions and self-regulation—all eyes are on the ongoing political dynamics.
Disney’s resumed contributions have raised concerns among some shareholders about the company’s alignment with its stated values, as seen in a recent shareholder meeting where a transparency motion about political contributions was defeated. Laura Nixon, from a shareholder group that funds progressive causes, expressed the need for Disney to ensure its donations align with its principles and interests.
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FAQs about Disney’s Political Donations
Why did Disney stop political donations in Florida?
Disney suspended political donations in response to internal protests against their lack of opposition to Florida’s “Don’t Say Gay” legislation, which they later opposed, recognizing it as a “challenge to basic human rights.”
How much has Disney donated to political causes in Florida recently?
Since resuming political donations, Disney has contributed $87,000 to various committees associated with state lawmakers, including supporters of the “Don’t Say Gay” law.
What is the “Don’t Say Gay” law?
The “Don’t Say Gay” law, officially known as the Parental Rights in Education bill, prohibits classroom discussions on LGBTQ+ subjects in public schools through the third grade in Florida.
How did the relationship between Disney and Governor DeSantis change after the lawsuit settlement?
Following the settlement of the lawsuit brought by Disney, the company and Governor DeSantis have experienced a thaw in relations, with a reduction in public tensions and negotiations for future developments.
What are the benefits of Disney’s special status in Florida?
Disney’s special status in Florida, which is currently under negotiation, permits it to function with significant autonomy, encompassing tax exemptions, the right to issue bonds, and control over services such as fire protection within its district.
