According to reporter Scott Maxwell, The Walt Disney Company has not only restarted political contributions in the state of Florida again, they have also given to lawmakers who voted for the “Don’t Say Gay” bill that the company was previously against. According to records, Disney provided an in-kind contribution of $16,423.20 to a political committee for Rep. Josie Tomkow. Tomkow voted yes for the “Don’t Say Gay” bill back in 2022.

According to the Federal Election Commission, an “in-kind” contribution is a non-monetary contribution. Goods or services offered free or at less than the usual charge result in an in-kind contribution. However, the value of an in-kind contribution counts against the contribution limits the same as a gift of money does.

As many know by now, the “Don’t Say Gay” bill was the bill that started the political firestorm that resulted in Florida Governor Ron DeSantis taking control of the local taxing district that oversaw infrastructure and construction at Walt Disney World. After a lethargic response from then-CEO Bob Chapek to the bill, Disney eventually paused all political spending in Florida to create “a new framework for our political giving that will ensure our advocacy better reflects our values”.

Since Chapek spoke out about the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, DeSantis and his allies have crafted legislation to punish Disney, including the Governor’s takeover of the former Reedy Creek Improvement District. After a tumultuous year with the renamed Central Florida Tourism Oversight District that involved three lawsuits, Disney and the District reached a settlement, and now appear to be ready to move forward – recently reaching an agreement over development in the District.

Now, it appears that Iger and company are not concerned with the optics or logistics of donating to politicians who are against the stated positions of The Walt Disney Company. Either that, or the stated positions of the Company have changed, or were quite porous all along.

As always, keep checking back with us here at BlogMickey.com as we continue to bring you the latest news, photos, and info from around the Disney Parks!