Gavin Newsom takes victory lap over Disney Florida decision, taunts Ron DeSantis saying ‘Authoritarian policies have consequences’
What happens when you have governors of two of the largest state who are political rivals and both aspiring to the highest office in the country score a victory for their state?
Look no further than yesterday’s Disney Corp. announcement canceling the relocation of thousands of employees from California to Florida.
Not missing a beat, Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom took a victory lap taunting Florida Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis. Both governors have presidential aspirations, with DeSantis expected to announce his candidacy for 2024 and Newsom looking ahead to 2028.
In another chapter of the ongoing imbroglio with Florida, Disney announced it canceled the relocation of 2,000 employees from Glendale, Calif., to Orlando, Fla. With the cancellation is the loss of a $1 billion project.
Never missing an opportunity to promote California and himself, Newsom issued a statement yesterday afternoon on Disney’s action.
“Authoritarian policies have consequences,” Newsom said. “This announcement is a victory for California and the tens of thousands of Disney employees who know they can live in a state where they are respected and safe. Disney has invested billions of dollars in California, and we look forward to their increased investment and growth in our state.”
While the ongoing feud between DeSantis and Disney is well documented, Newsom claimed his share of credit for yesterday’s action. The press release said Newsom had worked to keep the employees in California, saying, “Disney’s action follows the Governor’s ongoing conversations with the company and the public urging for the entertainment giant to continue to grow and invest in its home state of California.”
With the DeSantis-Disney feud far from over, undoubtedly, there will be more twists and turns. And, of course, if things break against DeSantis, you can expect Newsom will be Johnny on The Spot to remind everyone.
