Florida governor Ron DeSantis has been at the center of a political tug-of-war between former president Donald Trump and Walt Disney Co. In the first instance, DeSantis refused to assist in any extradition request against Trump, citing the Manhattan District Attorney as "stretching the law to target a political opponent". Despite Trump's allies accusing DeSantis of showing political weakness, the Governor also has taken a stand against Disney, appointing an oversight board to challenge an 11th-hour agreement that bolsters the company's control of the amusement park. The agreement, signed on 8 February, grants Disney broad veto powers over any improvements or changes to properties in the park and prohibits the board from using Disney name or characters or distributing or selling Disney-related merchandise. It also allows Disney to seek damages if the Board violates any provisions. In response, DeSantis appointed a new board, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District, entirely made up of his own appointees, including religious and conservative activists. The board is challenging the agreement, and DeSantis’ spokeswoman said that legal problems with the agreement could render it void. Disney has dismissed the challenge, claiming that all the agreements between Disney and the District were appropriate. As DeSantis stands firm against these two powerful entities, his political capital continues to grow among many Republicans, as he is seen as a serious challenger to Trump for the GOP's 2024 presidential nomination.
POLITICS
RON DESANTIS
GOP 2024 PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATION