Cameras flashed, music swelled, and spotlights lit the evening sky as Universal Orlando Resort unveiled its most ambitious theme park yet—Epic Universe.

But amidst the flurry of A-list celebrities, theme park executives, and influencers flooding the red-and-blue carpet event, one appearance turned more heads than any animatronic dragon or dazzling fireworks finale.

Ron DeSantis is standing at a podium, smiling. Behind him are the flags of the United States and Florida as Epic Universe opens.
Credit: First Coast News

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Says Yes to Epic Universe but No to Disney

Governor Ron DeSantis, a figure who’s become synonymous with political tension in Florida’s theme park landscape, made a bold, unexpected appearance at Universal’s grand opening.

Florida governor Ron Desantis is at the Epic Universe grand opening ceremonies. I don’t know why but it never occurred to me that politicians would of course be in attendance

– @wallin_ballin on X

For a man who has famously butted heads with the state’s other theme park juggernaut, Walt Disney World Resort, DeSantis’ presence here begs a pressing question: Is this a soft endorsement of Universal—and an unspoken dig at Disney?

A person in a suit holding a microphone stands next to a person dressed as Mickey Mouse, who is waving. In the background, there is a large American flag. To the left, there is a large pile of money, reminiscent of Ron DeSantis's campaign events.
Credit: Inside The Magic

A Silent Shift in the Theme Park Power Struggle?

It wasn’t long ago that DeSantis and Disney were locked in a headline-dominating battle. The feud, sparked by Disney’s public opposition to Florida’s Parental Rights in Education bill (often referred to by critics as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill), led to a political firestorm. DeSantis moved to strip Disney of its long-standing self-governing privileges, resulting in a high-profile lawsuit and widespread criticism.

So, seeing the Governor smiling and shaking hands on Universal’s turf—with no Disney counterparts in sight—feels more like a statement than a coincidence.

Though DeSantis made no formal remarks on the carpet, insiders report he spent over an hour at the event, touring select attractions and meeting with Universal executives. The tone of the evening? Cordial. Optimistic. Strategic.

Close-up of the entrance sign for Universal Epic Universe
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, Inside the Magic

What Could This Mean for Universal—and for Florida?

Epic Universe, slated to open to the public on May 22, 2025, fully, is expected to bring a massive economic boost to Central Florida, including 14,000+ new jobs and billions in tourism revenue. Universal’s investment in this new park underscores its commitment to Florida as the cornerstone of its global theme park empire.

DeSantis’ attendance signals a potential pivot—a willingness to align with Universal, whose parent company Comcast has largely avoided public political spats. Unlike Disney, which has been vocal on cultural and political issues, Universal has quietly focused on expansion, innovation, and brand partnerships.

And that strategy appears to be paying off—not just in public favor, but possibly in political support.

As one anonymous Universal team member put it, “Having the Governor here tonight sends a message: Universal is safe ground. It’s where imagination and investment align with state priorities.”

Tall, ornate entrance gate with a large arch reading "Epic Universe," decorative towers, and elaborate clock-like structures, welcoming visitors to this impressive theme park under a partly cloudy blue sky.
Credit: Andrew Boardwine, Inside the Magic

Is DeSantis Playing Favorites?

The optics are hard to ignore. While Disney has become somewhat of a cultural flashpoint in Florida’s ideological battles, Universal is emerging as the neutral favorite—creative, inclusive, and business-focused, but not politically confrontational.

If DeSantis continues to show support for Universal’s endeavors, it could indicate a broader shift in how Florida’s leadership aligns with entertainment titans.

And for Universal, the benefits could be substantial: smoother permitting processes, favorable infrastructure funding, and elevated influence in state-level tourism initiatives. It might also give Universal more breathing room as it positions Epic Universe to compete head-to-head with Magic Kingdom for the title of Florida’s most iconic park.

Five colorful, fantastical gateways represent themed lands: a post-apocalyptic tower, whimsical pillars with mushrooms and stars, an ornate clock tower, a jagged magical spire, and a classic column topped with a golden statue representing all 5 lands of the Epic Universe theme park coming on May 22, 2025 titled Epic Universe, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in attendance.
Credit: Universal

Ron DeSantis at Epic Universe: A New Chapter in Florida’s Theme Park Rivalry?

Epic Universe is already making headlines for its immersive lands themed to Nintendo, classic monsters, and futuristic adventures. But tonight’s spotlight may have unintentionally shifted to something much bigger: the quiet evolution of Florida’s theme park loyalty.

While Disney fans continue to stand by the Mouse, some industry watchers say the tide could be turning. With Universal’s bold expansion and DeSantis’ subtle nod of approval, the Sunshine State may be welcoming a new era—one where the theme park crown is genuinely up for grabs.

So, was Governor DeSantis just another VIP at a star-studded event? Or was tonight the beginning of a deeper partnership with Universal that reshapes Florida’s entertainment economy?

Only time—and maybe the next state budget—will tell.

The post DeSantis Cuts Ties With Disney, Surprises Millions With Epic Universe Stunt appeared first on Inside the Magic.

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