Disney CEO Questions Florida Investment Due To DeSantis Attacks

Walt Disney Co. Chief Executive Bob Iger has accused Florida politicians of retaliating against the company and questioned the state's interest in the entertainment conglomerate's continued investment in Walt Disney World, Dawn Chmielewski and Lisa Richwine reported for Reuters.

Photo Insert: The State Office in Washington D.C., United States (placed in the photo)

Disney has accused Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and his supporters of "weaponizing" the state government to punish it for exercising free-speech rights last year when the company criticized a state measure banning classroom discussion of sexuality and gender identity with younger children.

Iger said Disney has built a resort that employs more than 75,000 people and attracts millions of visitors each year, using a special district established more than 50 years ago to foster development in central Florida.

It plans to invest $17 billion over the next decade expanding Walt Disney World. He added there are 2,000 special districts in Florida.

"We operate responsibly. We pay our fair share of taxes. We employ thousands of people. And by the way, we pay them above the minimum wage, substantially above the minimum wage dictated by the state of Florida," Iger said in remarks made during the company's quarterly investor call.

"So I'm going to finish ... by asking one question: Does the state want us to invest more, employ more people and pay more taxes, or not?"

Iger's comments were unusual for the executive known for his genial, even disposition.

He took issue with concerted efforts to dismantle the special district that he said enabled Disney's growth, and put it in the hands of state-appointed overseers. He said Disney has been forced to file a lawsuit in federal court to protect its business interests.

WEEKLY FEATURE : MVP Group Keeps Lights On During Pandemic