Bob Iger Criticizes Ron DeSantis’ Actions as Anti-Business, Anti-Florida

Disney CEO Bob Iger clashed harshly with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis at Disney’s shareholders call on Monday. Iger took particular issue with DeSantis’ “Don’t Say Gay” law, slammed DeSantis for his attempts to punish the company for taking a stance against the bill, and accused the governor of acting “anti-business” and “anti-Florida”.

Disney and DeSantis’ conflict ensued after the former voiced their opposition to the legislation in March 2022. In response, the governor initiated the move to remove Disney’s special tax status, previously granted to the company since 1967. This allowed Disney to claim benefits such as controlling property taxes, fire protection, and road maintenance.

Due to the ensuing controversy and Disney’s stance, Bob Chapek, the former CEO, was pressured to speak out and eventually denounced the bill in March 2022.

DeSantis’ retaliatory move saw the state-run Central Florida Tourism Oversight District replace the Reedy Creek Improvement District – which was originally majority-owned by Disney – stripping Disney World of its self-governing status.

But in a savvy move, Disney lawyers wrote an agreement that could keep state-appointed board members at bay for decades to come. DeSantis has called on Florida’s Inspector General to explore into the possibility that Disney staff may have been involved with the loophole.

The authoritarian backlash was confronted with indignation by Iger, who declared Disney had contributed to Florida with jobs, hotel occupancy and programs that stimulated tourism.

About Disney: Disney is an American diversified multinational mass media and entertainment conglomerate. It is best known for its film and television studios, as well as its theme parks, consumer products, events, and stories. Disney has long been known to be a pioneer when it comes to family-oriented entertainment and has consistently strived to create the most magical experience possible for everyone who visits its magical merchandising, parks and movies.

About Bob Iger: Bob Iger is an American businessman and the current executive chairman of The Walt Disney Company. After working at ABC for 21 years, he became the eighth chief executive at Disney in 2005, and was later also appointed chairman from 2012 to 2020. He has been credited with transforming the Disney brand with the acquisitions of Pixar, Marvel, and Lucasfilm, among others. Now, Iger is back to his role as CEO and is looking to making Disney the biggest family entertainment in the world.