Walt Disney World, a major opponent of gambling expansion in Florida, gave state political parties and candidates more than $250,000 between July 1 and September 30.
State Division of Elections records shows Disney donated $225,000 to the Republican Party of Florida, and $60,000 to the Florida Democratic Party, in addition to free tickets, hotel rooms, food and drink worth about $85,000 for fundraisers and events, reports Jason Garcia in the Orlando Sentinel.
One of Disney’s highest legislative priorities is blocking the development of “destination” casino resorts, seen as undermining Florida’s reputation as a family-oriented vacation spot. Such adult-oriented fun would compete with Disney for visitor’s time and money.
As Disney ups the ante with lobbying, Genting Group, the Malaysian-based gaming company, gave $250,000 to the state GOP, the majority party in the Legislature. Genting is Disney’s “arch enemy” in the effort to bring gambling resorts to the Sunshine State.
Disney and Genting are not the only players in the gambling lobby game, Garcia writes. The Seminole Tribe of Florida also gave Republicans $250,000 and Democrats $75,000. The Tribe has exclusive gaming rights for blackjack and table games in much of Florida, with an agreement set to expire around 2015.
Smaller pari-mutuels companies — who are lobbying for more gambling at tracks and other venues — are also being heard by giving considerable money to candidates. As Mardi Gras Gaming donated a total of $80,000 to Republicans, Palm Beach Kennel Club gave $39,100, and Jacksonville Greyhound Racing paid $25,000. Democrats got $20,000 from Calder Race Course.
