Disney’s Lobbying Tactics Are a Real Outrage
After trying to coerce the California Coastal Commission and the state Assembly into creating special exemptions to the state’s wetlands regulations, the Disney Co. is again attempting, through Congress, to bend public policy in the name of expediency and corporate self-interest (“Tax Money Sought for Disneyland Expansion,” July 13).
Disney’s proposal for $395 million worth of public funds to support pet highway projects into and around Disneyland is an affront to California citizens wallowing in the effects of decreased social services, emasculated education budgets and decaying urban environments. Disney’s proposed tax grab grows all the more brazen when juxtaposed with the multimillion-dollar bonuses routinely awarded to its top executives, Michael Eisner being the prime example.
Perhaps most disturbing about the company’s latest political push, however, is that its rhetoric increasingly sounds like something out of “Great Moments With Mr. Machiavelli.”
Disney conveniently ignores the fact that it would be the primary beneficiary and that several longstanding highway proposals would be casualties of the scheme.
Instead, the company paints itself as an instigator of great public works projects.
Disney’s lobbying efforts also serve as another ugly reminder that PAC money well-placed (even 400 miles away to representatives like Don Edwards, (D-San Jose) and Vic Fazio, (D-Sacramento)) can be money well-spent.
Government officials need to examine whether the vitality of an entertainment enterprise like Disney actually necessitates corporate socialism.
SCOTT RABER, Los Alamitos
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