DeSantis Seeks Dismissal of Disney's Free Speech Lawsuit
The outcome could determine control over Walt Disney World's governing district amid claims of politicization and cronyism.
- Attorneys for Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have asked a federal judge to dismiss a free speech lawsuit filed by Disney.
- The lawsuit was filed in response to DeSantis taking over Walt Disney World's governing district after the company opposed a state law banning classroom lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in early grades.
- Disney accuses DeSantis and his appointees of using political institutions to punish disfavored viewpoints.
- Since the takeover, more than 10% of the district’s 370 employees have left their jobs, citing politicization and cronyism.
- The outcome of the case could determine who controls the governing district that performs municipal services in the area making up Disney World.