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Disney has always been a symbol of magic, childhood wonder, and family-friendly entertainment. But in recent years, the company has also become a lightning rod for political controversy, accused by many conservatives—including Donald Trump—of abandoning traditional values in favor of a “woke” agenda. With Trump preparing for a potential second term as president, the tension between him and one of America’s most iconic companies could escalate into a full-blown cultural showdown.
Credit: Gage Skidmore, Flickr
While Disney has long been intertwined with the fabric of American life, its increasing focus on inclusivity and social progress has drawn fire from conservative voices. Trump’s grievances with Disney are multifaceted, touching on everything from its casting decisions in blockbuster films to its corporate stances on political issues. The feud could have wide-reaching implications, not only for Disney’s bottom line but for how corporations navigate the increasingly polarized political landscape.
A History of Friction: Why Trump Is Targeting Disney
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Trump’s disdain for Disney has been brewing for years. The former president has often accused the company of betraying its roots by embracing progressive values. In May 2023, Trump lambasted Disney as a “woke and disgusting shadow of its former self” in a scathing social media post, criticizing the company’s diverse casting choices and cultural messaging.
Some of Trump’s specific complaints include:
- Diverse Casting in Classic Remakes: Disney’s live-action The Little Mermaid starred Halle Bailey, a Black actress, as Ariel—a move celebrated by many but condemned by some conservatives as “political correctness” gone too far. Similarly, Rachel Zegler’s casting as Snow White in an upcoming remake has drawn criticism from Trump supporters, especially after Zegler’s public opposition to Trump.
- Marvel’s Political Storylines: The upcoming Marvel film Captain America: Brave New World features a Black Captain America (Anthony Mackie) battling a corrupt U.S. president who transforms into the villain Red Hulk. With vocal Trump critic Harrison Ford playing the role, the storyline has been perceived by conservatives as a thinly veiled critique of Trump’s presidency.
- ABC’s Editorial Stance: Disney-owned ABC News has been a frequent target of Trump’s ire. Trump has accused the network of biased reporting and once suggested revoking its broadcast license, a legally impossible move but one emblematic of his frustration with its coverage.
Trump’s grievances with Disney have only intensified as the company continues to take public stances on hot-button issues, from LGBTQ+ rights to racial representation in media.
The Hall of Presidents: An Ironic Connection
Credit: Disney
Despite Trump’s criticism of Disney, the former president is enshrined in one of its most iconic attractions: the Hall of Presidents at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom.
In 2017, Disney unveiled an animatronic figure of Trump, complete with a speech based on his own words. The addition was met with mixed reactions. Supporters appreciated the recognition of his presidency, while critics noted the figure’s exaggerated features, sparking memes and mockery online.
The animatronic Trump remains a popular draw for visitors, but it also underscores the complexity of Disney’s relationship with Trump. While the company aims to celebrate America’s democratic legacy, its modern-day clashes with the former president reveal deeper cultural and ideological divides.
How Trump Could Retaliate Against Disney
As Trump eyes a potential second term, the question arises: What could he do to retaliate against Disney? His history of using political power to target perceived enemies offers several possibilities:
1. Boycotts and Public Campaigns
Trump has a proven ability to mobilize his base against companies he deems hostile. In the past, he has called for boycotts of brands like Goodyear and Coca-Cola. A similar campaign against Disney could focus on its films, streaming services, or theme parks, potentially damaging its reputation among conservative consumers.
2. Regulatory Pressure
While Trump lacks the authority to directly revoke licenses or dismantle companies, his administration could use regulatory agencies like the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or the Department of Justice to scrutinize Disney’s operations. His appointee to lead the FCC, Brendan Carr, has already vowed to dismantle diversity initiatives and enforce “public interest” obligations for broadcasters.
3. Escalating the Florida Fight
Disney’s feud with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over the state’s “Don’t Say Gay” legislation became a flashpoint for conservative opposition to the company. If Trump assumes the presidency, he could amplify this battle on a national level, pushing for federal policies that align with conservative cultural values.
4. Promoting Conservative Entertainment Alternatives
Given Trump’s background in television, he could champion or even create new entertainment ventures designed to counter Disney’s influence. A conservative-leaning streaming service or theme park could siphon off a segment of Disney’s audience, particularly if positioned as an antidote to “woke” culture.
Disney’s Political Tightrope
Credit: Disney/ Flickr @gageskidmore
Disney’s challenges don’t end with Trump. The company faces pressure from all sides as it tries to navigate a polarized political landscape. Under CEO Bob Iger, Disney has doubled down on its commitment to inclusivity while attempting to repair its relationship with conservative audiences.
For example:
- Disney has resumed advertising on X (formerly Twitter) after a year-long hiatus, signaling a willingness to reengage with platforms that cater to conservative users.
- The company has avoided endorsing specific candidates in recent elections, a move seen as an attempt to stay politically neutral.
However, Disney’s potential leadership transition could complicate matters. Dana Walden, rumored to be a successor to Iger, is a close ally of Vice President Kamala Harris. Walden’s appointment could further inflame tensions with Trump, who has already criticized her ties to Harris during the 2024 presidential race.
Cultural Battles on a National Stage
Trump’s feud with Disney reflects broader cultural battles playing out in America. By targeting Disney’s “woke” agenda, Trump is tapping into a political strategy that resonates with his base while positioning himself as a defender of traditional values.
“Disney straddles a precarious line between the expectations of its employees, the interests of its shareholders, and the kinds of political shenanigans that corporations might wish to stay out of,” said Mike Fahey, CEO of Fahey Communications. “But it may not be possible for Disney to stay out of it too much longer because Trump is pushing local issues like Reedy Creek to the national level.”
This clash could escalate further if Trump leverages his platform to criticize Disney’s involvement in issues like transgender rights or racial representation—topics that have already placed the company at the center of America’s culture wars.
What Lies Ahead?
As Disney prepares for a future potentially shaped by Trump’s presidency, the stakes are high. The company’s ability to navigate these turbulent waters will determine not only its political reputation but also its long-term viability as a global entertainment leader.
For now, visitors to Disney World can still see Trump’s animatronic figure delivering a speech in the Hall of Presidents. Whether that figure becomes a symbol of reconciliation or another flashpoint in the Trump-Disney feud remains to be seen.
In the meantime, the battle between Trump and Disney is about more than just one company or one man—it’s a reflection of the broader cultural, political, and economic forces shaping the United States today. And as these two American icons clash, the outcome could reverberate far beyond the Magic Kingdom.
Do you think that Donald Trump will side with or against Disney?Â
I know he’s incredibly stupid and short sighted, but trump isn’t dumb enough to shut down the biggest tourist attraction in the world…I hope!
This has to be one of the dumbest articles you’ve ever published. Stop with this kind of rhetoric, it’s nonsense. President Trump will have enough on his hands tackling the destruction the previous administration has left and avoiding World War 3. He probably couldn’t care less about Disney. Try sticking with actual Disney Parks updates instead of these ‘stir the pot’ fictional scenarios.
Tell me you’re a democrat without telling me you’re a democrat. This article is deeply disturbing and this conservative Disney lover is no longer going to follow this nonsense newsletter.
Well I hope that trump tells all his red neck followers to stay away from Disney,that’s the only thing he can do to Disney,and they won’t be missed
Once again, a non-evidentiary based tome with no substance but lots of hyperbole. While Trump may not be fond of mainstream media, and rightfully so, I doubt he has the time or inclination to specifically target Disney, ABC, etc. There are enough problems facing the country that require his attention and he probably does not spend every waking moment dreaming about how he can “retaliate” against Disney. In an almost delicious sense of irony, another article states that Disney may shelve “Snow White” due to poor audience reception. I’m sure this author will blame Trump, conservatives, Bigfoot and the Abominable Snowman instead of placing responsibility where it belongs; on Disney for its abject failure to come up with new and creative concepts that drive audiences to the theatre.
B.S.
Trump is not Anti-Disney. Some people in the Disney organization are putting politics and “Woke” philosophy ahead of family values. You cannot make everyone happy but you don’t have to dishonor more Disney families and friends than you gain by changing time honored traits. Do you think Walt would be happy with the politics being played.
Shame on this writer for creating an terrible article devoid of facts and based on opinion because she is butthurt that her candidate lost. Probably shouldn’t expect more from someone that only consults her own feelings when assessing…. but I will point out something that is VERY interesting stemming from such an article…no one is saying that Universal is going to get shut down? The message is.. Disney stay in your lane..
Disney shouldn’t side with either political party. And from what I’ve read in these blogs in the past, this blog does exactly that. I agree that any news being reported should come from neutral territory. Disney should do the same. There are people of all different cultures and beliefs who love Disney. I do feel being inclusive is great when casting roles, but to completely show how woke they are is appalling. Disney is Disney, shouldn’t be publicly political.