Orlando, FL, August 10, 2023 – Leadership Now Project has filed an amicus brief in Walt Disney Parks v. DeSantis, underscoring the threat that government retaliation poses to businesses and democracy. The brief highlights the alarming trend of state governments punishing companies for their constitutionally protected speech.
The health of the U.S. democratic system and the economy relies on business, which are strained by the threat of government retaliation, hindering investment and innovation. Leadership Now Member and CityView CEO, Sean Burton warns of the risks, stating, "This case is particularly egregious because it involves government interference with established contracts. Such interference jeopardizes economic prosperity by decreasing the ability of companies to be autonomous and manage themselves. It prevents companies from investing in ways that create the most value for their employees, customers, and shareholders."
The brief underlines that this case relates to action by political leaders with little precedent in the United States and reminds us of what the future could look like for American democracy and business — a nation where political leaders could use their office to cancel contracts or enact laws directed at specific companies with whom they disagree.
Leadership Now Member and Executive Chairperson of Jack Cooper, Sarah Amico shares her concern in the precedent this could set, explaining, “The state has weaponized the power of government to punish a private business for exercising its right to free speech on behalf of employees, customers and stakeholders. This kind of retaliation is, simply put, antithetical to the core tenets of U.S. democracy. As the Executive Chairperson of one of North America’s largest women-owned logistics businesses, I am deeply concerned about the outcome of this case. American businesses invest in our communities, create jobs for our families, and bolster our nation’s competitiveness. Government can be an important partner in that work — but only if it defends a key element contributing to the stability of the American economic system — the well-settled principle that contracts will be enforced and upheld."
Leadership Now's CEO, Daniella Ballou-Aares, points out that “Leadership Now submitted a brief because we believe it is essential that business leaders stand together and respond when political leaders use their power to punish companies who express alternative views than them.” As U.S. businesses face mounting pressures, the threat of government retaliation only amplifies challenges, endangering economic security and democracy. By taking a clear position on this case, the Leadership Now Project’s membership of business leaders aims to protect democratic stability against these threats.
Daniella Ballou-Aares discussed the threat of political retribution in depth with Triple Pundit Managing Editor Mary Mazzoni: Beyond Disney: Government Overreach Threatens Free Speech and Good Business, Executives Say
