By Dario Baker

When Ron DeSantis assumed office as Florida’s governor, he promised to bring bold leadership to the Sunshine State. In many ways, he’s succeeded in putting Florida in the spotlight—but not always for the right reasons. His most controversial move—wrestling control of Disney’s Reedy Creek Improvement District—showcases a strategy that prioritizes political theatrics over sound governance. While Florida may boast economic gains, the cost of these victories might leave a sour legacy.

The Disney Debacle: A Political Gamble

In 2023, DeSantis and his Republican-controlled legislature took control of Disney’s self-governing district, an arrangement that had worked seamlessly for decades. Reedy Creek’s autonomy allowed Disney to handle its own infrastructure, utilities, and emergency services—all without costing Florida taxpayers a dime. In return, Disney built one of the world’s most lucrative entertainment hubs, generating billions in economic activity and creating tens of thousands of jobs.

However, DeSantis’s feud with Disney—stemming from the company’s opposition to his controversial “Parental Rights in Education” law—led him to replace Reedy Creek with a state-controlled board. This political stunt saddled the state with significant responsibilities, including the management of nearly $1 billion in bond debt, infrastructure costs, and operational complexities that were previously Disney’s problem.

What did Florida gain from this move? Not much. Instead, it alienated one of its largest employers and economic contributors, canceling future investments like Disney’s planned $1 billion campus, which would have brought 2,000 high-paying jobs to the state.

A Rich State Burdened by Poor Choices

Florida remains a wealthy state, thanks to its tourism, agriculture, and real estate industries. But DeSantis’s leadership is turning this prosperity into a precarious house of cards. By taking over Disney’s district, the state has taken on financial risks that may not immediately impact its bottom line but could have long-term consequences:

1. Debt Management: Florida now oversees Reedy Creek’s nearly $1 billion debt. If mismanaged, this could lead to taxpayer bailouts.

2. Infrastructure Costs: Roads, bridges, utilities, and emergency services now fall under state oversight. These costs could balloon over time, adding strain to the budget.

3. Lost Investment: Disney’s withdrawal of major projects is just the beginning. Other corporations may see Florida’s hostile political climate as a reason to avoid the state altogether.

The Real Price of Political Theater

DeSantis’s approach to governance has prioritized short-term political gain over sustainable policies. By targeting Disney, he rallied his base, positioning himself as a warrior against “woke” corporations. But this narrative has come at the expense of Florida’s reputation as a business-friendly state.

Businesses thrive on stability, and Florida’s handling of Disney sends a chilling message: political disagreements can lead to government overreach. For a state reliant on corporate investment and tourism, this is a dangerous precedent.

A Legacy of Unnecessary Risk

Florida under DeSantis may be rich in revenue, but it’s also becoming rich in liabilities. The Disney conflict highlights a growing pattern where political posturing takes precedence over fiscal responsibility. While DeSantis’s base celebrates his defiance, Floridians may eventually foot the bill—whether through higher taxes, lost economic opportunities, or a weakened state reputation.

In trying to consolidate power, DeSantis has created a legacy of financial recklessness. Florida may still be rich, but thanks to moves like the Disney debacle, it’s becoming rich for the worst reasons. If the governor’s political gambit proves anything, it’s that being rich doesn’t mean you’re managing your wealth wisely.