NBA team generously supports pro-DeSantis PAC.
The Orlando Magic’s Controversial Political Donation
The Orlando Magic, an NBA team based in Orlando, Florida, recently made headlines with a significant political donation. According to Federal Election Commission filings, the team donated $50,000 to Never Back Down, a political action committee supporting Governor Ron DeSantis’s presidential run.
“Possibly the largest political donation attributed to an NBA organization,”
This generous contribution has sparked both praise and criticism, drawing attention to the team’s ties to the governor and the controversial issues surrounding the donation.
A Close Connection
The Orlando Magic is owned by RDV Sports, Inc., a company founded by the late Amway billionaire Richard DeVos. The team’s chairman, Dan DeVos, is the brother-in-law of former President Donald Trump’s secretary of education, Betsy DeVos. This familial connection adds an intriguing layer to the story.
A Clash with Disney
Adding to the complexity, the NBA team is sponsored by Disney, another prominent Orlando-based company. However, Disney and Governor DeSantis have been at odds over Florida’s Parental Rights in Education Bill. This law has sparked controversy as it bans classroom instruction about sexual orientation and gender identity for young students. Disney has been vocal in its opposition to the bill, leading to a strained relationship with the governor.
In fact, DeSantis signed a bill last year revoking the special status of Reedy Creek Improvement District, the governing district of Walt Disney World. The governor has also abolished the district’s diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, further exacerbating tensions.
A Heated Exchange
Recently, Vice President Kamala Harris criticized Governor DeSantis over the state’s guidelines on teaching the African American experience. In response, DeSantis invited Harris to a debate, accusing her of “maligning” his state. However, Harris rejected his offer, escalating the confrontation.
These controversies have not gone unnoticed by the public and other NBA players. New Orleans Pelicans forward Larry Nance Jr. criticized the Orlando Magic’s management for supporting a man who made controversial statements about the benefits of slavery.
“So the @OrlandoMagic, who have a majority black roster, a black head coach, and a black GM, decided it was a good idea to support a man that claims that slavery had personal benefits for the enslaved?”
As the political landscape continues to evolve, the Orlando Magic’s donation and its implications will undoubtedly remain a topic of discussion.
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