Overview

• Over 30 employees have left the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District since government control shifted to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his allies, leading to allegations of cronyism and a significant decrease in morale.
• Employees point to a change in culture since DeSantis took over the governing District, asserting the District now prioritizes politics over its employees, its community and its work.
• Despite public affirmations from the District leadership about their commitment to maintaining a tradition of excellence, employees have reported an environment of fear and hypocrisy, accusing the new leadership of acting just as, if not more, cronyist than the previous administration.
• The DeSantis-controlled board has allegedly structured deals to favor politically-connected associates, including a controversial $242,500 no-bid contract, causing further concerns of cronyism within the District.
• Disney has filed legal actions against DeSantis and the district, claiming their takeover of the previously Disney-controlled government has infringed upon the company's free speech rights.