A hero or an ogre?

I've been a Republican most of my life, but the current turmoil Gov. Ron DeSantis has created with The Walt Disney Co. is shameful. With all the strife, war and inhumanity evident around the world, how can you express such animosity toward a company that has brought joy and happiness to children everywhere?

Gov. DeSantis, I encourage you to ask your children what they think of Disney. Who their favorite character is and what they think of Disney World. Then think how they might feel as they get older about their dad's attempt to destroy a company that has given us the adorable, and sometimes cranky, characters who make us sing, dance, pretend to be princesses, pirates, knights, superheroes. Disney-created animals to cuddle with at night. Maybe you should ask them before you continue to bash the company only to wake one day to learn your children are ashamed of the battle you waged with a beloved company. Would they embrace you as hero, or ogre?

It hurts my heart to think how sad it would be for children and grandchildren and even adults to have missed the relationships Disney espouses through diverse characters and stories. The sense of being part of a family. Experiencing sadness, love, loss, fear, achievement, power and self-confidence they see portrayed by Disney characters. In movies, cartoons and theme parks.

Please find a way to get beyond whatever anger or outrage you've collected toward Walt Disney and be an adult. A leader. An example of what greatness we have in Florida. So far, I'm embarrassed to consider myself a Republican and a Floridian who has an ogre for governor.  Your battle with a great company that has contributed hugely to the state's coffers. Ogres are not worthy of my vote. Happy Earth Day, governor!

— Pamela Mones, Sarasota