Disney, the mass media company that is internationally known for promoting the “happiest place on Earth,” is now in a steamy legal dispute with Florida’s governor, Ron DeSantis. This battle began in March 2022 when DeSantis signed the Parental Rights in Education Act, which prohibited classroom discussion about sexual orientation and gender identity in certain elementary school grades. In response to the enactment of the law, Disney staged a public protest, and their then chief executive, Bob Chapek, criticized the bill. Due to this public stance, DeSantis and other Republican lawmakers answered with a fiery quote: “If Disney wants to pick a fight, they chose the wrong guy.” 

After back-and-forth legal actions, such as the Florida legislature implementing restrictions on Disney World, the company eventually sued DeSantis directly claiming it was subjected to “a targeted campaign of government retaliation.” Now, DeSantis and his team are aiming to counter-sue Disney, dragging out the very public feud. As the dispute between Disney and DeSantis escalates, many are questioning when this battle will ever end and if this lawsuit will ruin the reputation of both parties involved. The public, including former president Donald Trump, believes that the feud is unnecessary and that Disney is outmaneuvering the governor. Despite Disney’s difficult and chaotic situation right now, Americans are still patiently waiting for the “happiest place on Earth” to open its doors in a more positive light.