When you think about controversies surrounding Disney theme parks, several might come to mind. Some are still angry about the ending of FastPass, while others don’t mind Disney Genie+. Some guests are still bitter about Splash Mountain’s transformation into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, while others welcome the change. Then, there are the food controversies, like the love of Cheeseburger Spring Rolls and DOLE Whips versus their being considered overrated.
But there is one controversy that you might not consider when thinking about Disney — politics.
Related: 10 Biggest Controversies at Walt Disney World
Over the past few years, the country seems to have become more politically divided than ever. Unfortunately, that political divide has affected Walt Disney World Resort, specifically the Hall of Presidents attraction in Liberty Square at the Magic Kingdom.
Guests have shared their frustrations while visiting the attraction more than once. They claim that Trump supporters frequently cause a ruckus, shout, and yell when the former President is mentioned or speaks. Many have said that they avoid the attraction simply so they don’t have to deal with any chaos.
Related: Disney World Contemplates Closing Historic Hall of Presidents Over Guest Misbehavior
Recently, Disney added an Ichabod Crane feature above the Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe. Between that and the trouble surrounding the Hall of Presidents, some are wondering if it is time to say goodbye to Liberty Square and transform it into something else.
I’m a firm believer that Disney should straight-up nix Liberty Square in place for Sleepy Hallow. A “spooky” land works well for Haunted Mansion and would be a mood-buffer if a possible villains area ends up behind Thunder Mountain.
Plus no more HoP which is a win.
I’m a firm believer that Disney should straight-up nix Liberty Square in place for Sleepy Hallow. A “spooky” land works well for Haunted Mansion and would be a mood-buffer if a possible villains area ends up behind Thunder Mountain.
Plus no more HoP which is a win. https://t.co/UrM0I8bvS6
— Nathan Hartman (@somestuffisaid) July 21, 2024
Related: Is Disney Scrubbing Former President Donald Trump from the Hall of Presidents?
Some did not think Disney would take that step, but they did think that a Halloween overlay would be something really fun to see and experience.
I would absolutely love this but I don’t see it happening. Though as a yearly seasonal overlay for Halloween would be incredible!
I would absolutely love this but I don’t see it happening. Though as a yearly seasonal overlay for Halloween would be incredible!
— C.S. Reed (@MrCSReed) July 21, 2024
Related: What’s Up With the Disney Trump Animatronic Conspiracy?
Others felt that changing Liberty Square would be disrespectful to Walt Disney, since he considered himself a very patriotic person. During World War II, Walt even made propaganda videos for the US government.
Removing something so deeply connected to Walt’s sense of patriotism would be perfectly on-brand for 2024 Disney.
Removing something so deeply connected to Walt’s sense of patriotism would be perfectly on-brand for 2024 Disney.
— BostonWriter (@bostonwriter) July 21, 2024
Some commenters thought Nathan was straight-up wrong. They loved the area’s attractions — which include the Haunted Mansion and Liberty Square Riverboat — and food and didn’t think anything should be changed. They did not think that the controversy currently surrounding the Hall of Presidents was enough to remove it from the park and change the land.
What is wrong with HoP it’s pretty cool seeing every president in American history in one room. Liberty Square is a great land with the best food and best ride in the park. Why would you want that to be changed???
What is wrong with HoP it’s pretty cool seeing every president in American history in one room. Liberty Square is a great land with the best food and best ride in the park. Why would you want that to be changed???
— Shelly (@MercWitAMouth88) July 21, 2024
Getting rid of Liberty Square is an interesting concept, especially since many guests have voiced their desire to have an area themed around Disney villains. The impending expansion behind Big Thunder Mountain Railroad could allow Disney to build an area that seamlessly blends with Liberty Square if they revamp and retheme it.
Disney has not given any indication that they will be changing Liberty Square anytime soon. If you are headed to the colonial land, please remember to be respectful to other guests. Do not scream and shout while enjoying the Hall of Presidents show. If you exhibit poor behavior, a Disney Park cast member may escort you from the attraction.
Do you think Disney should get rid of Liberty Square? Let us know in the comments!
There is nothing wrong with the Hall of President’s. The problem is the idiots in the audience making noise. Keep Liberty Square. Get rid of the idiots!
Love Liberty Square but it can be boring to some individuals. Perhaps “new additions” to it instead of getting rid of it.
The single point of contention is the Hall of Presidents, which is just one element of Liberty Square. Disney can continue to honor the concept while – tactfully – leaving politics out. That some visitors cannot is the potential problem. Adjusting the format of the attraction has probably been considered more than once. And, in time, it would have to be altered anyway, as the number of presidents would eventually grow beyond the ability to represent them all at life size. Even the “roll call” could be changed to a visual, rather than spoken. Any number of changes could be made that would retain the integrity of the show without provoking political irritation. Removing the attraction, or the area as a whole, is hardly necessary.
I agree with you Cliff!