Disney Empire Strikes DeSantis Back — After Ron Wanted To Move On

Mickey Mouse has Republican candidate Ron DeSantis in his crosshairs.

What Happened: DeSantis, who proudly used the slogan "Run With Ron" during his successful 2018 Florida gubernatorial election, is being weighed down by a legal spat with Walt Disney Co DIS.

The Burbank, California-based media conglomerate — also the most prominent company to do business in Florida — has slapped DeSantis with a lawsuit.

See Also: Leaked Memo Reveals DeSantis Advisors Are Urging The Governor To 'Show Emotion'

Disney's complaint stems from actions taken by the Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board, which was recently rebranded by DeSantis.

Earlier this year, Disney had certain development contracts in place for Orlando land development. But once it spoke out against DeSantis' "Don't say gay" law, which bans the discussion of sexual orientation and gender in all grades, the governor retaliated.

The board, at the behest of DeSantis, ripped up the contracts.

Disney attorney Dan Petrocelli, who is vice chair at O'Melveny law firm, now seeks to ensure that the previously agreed-upon development contracts with the company's Walt Disney World resort remain in place.

See Also: Disney Shows Bullish Strength Despite Neo-Nazi Protests From DeSantis Supporters

Why It Matters: DeSantis is vying for the U.S. presidency, and running what appears to be a sloppy campaign.

Ongoing drama with Disney isn't helping matters much, as the so-called "woke war" doesn't seem to be winning over potential voters.

Also, a corporate land squabble isn't a good look for a GOP hopeful, considering the party prides itself on free enterprise and laissez-faire economics.

DeSantis has even been changing his tune as of late, telling CNBC that he hopes Disney drops the lawsuit and the parties can move forward.

It remains to be seen whether the Star Wars parent company will retreat.

Judge Margaret H. Schreiber is presiding over the case in Florida's Orange County.

DIS Price Action: Walt Disney shares traded lower by 0.44% at $85.54 on the last check Friday.

Now Read: DeSantis Accuses Disney Of 'Sexualization' Of Children

Photo: Shutterstock