The Walt Disney Company continues its fight with Gov. Ron DeSantis, both in court and outside of it. The entertainment giant has rescinded a $1 billion plan to build a large-scale housing community for its employees in Florida. This is a huge loss of revenue and consumer spending for Florida and is certain to leave a mark.
Just last week, current Disney CEO Bob Iger asked DeSantis if he truly wanted the business and tax revenue Disney brings to the sunshine state. Challenging the park and company has literally kicked the hornet’s nest.
“Given the considerable changes that have occurred since the announcement of this project, including new leadership and changing business conditions, we have decided not to move forward with construction of the campus,” Disney Parks and Resorts boss Josh D’Amaro said in a statement. “This was not an easy decision to make, but I believe it is the right one. As a result, we will no longer be asking our employees to relocate. For those who have already moved, we will talk to you individually about your situation, including the possibility of moving you back.”
Huge Deal Extinguished in DeSantis Burn
The plan was to move roughly 2,000 staffers to Florida. It wasn’t necessarily a move the staff wanted. The plan had been delayed to 2026 amid frustrations.
When you factor in the loss of construction jobs, vendor spending, staffers, their housing, and the increase to consumer spending, this will be more along the lines of a ten billion dollar loss for Florida. DeSantis is hoping to run for the White House, but is already looking wobbly in the eyes of other conservatives. This move by Disney is a right hook right to the jaw of his platform. The fact they are willing to cancel this significant plan is a serious power play. When Mickey tells you “Back Off,” it might be in your best interest to listen.
The company has also announced a closure of their “Star Wars” themed immersive Galactic Starcruiser hotel at Walt Disney World, also located in Florida. The NAACP has issued a travel advisory against the state as well.
