Tom Stoppard’s “Leopoldstadt” took home the award for Best Play. The night also saw historic wins for nonbinary actors Alex Newell and J. Harrison Ghee. Bonnie Milligan delivered an inspiring speech upon winning for “Kimberly Akimbo,” and Denée Benton made pointed remarks about Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Jodie Comer won Best Actress for her performance in “Prima Facie.”

The 2023 Tony Awards defied the challenges posed by the Hollywood writers’ strike and proceeded with a slightly altered ceremony at the United Palace Theatre in New York. The event, hosted by Ariana DeBose, featured a notable absence of scripted banter during the presentation of awards. However, the night was not lacking in memorable moments, with powerful performances and deserving winners taking the stage.

The prestigious award for Best Musical went to “Kimberly Akimbo,” a captivating production centered around a 16-year-old girl, brilliantly portrayed by Victoria Clark, who ages four times faster than the average person. The musical also received recognition for its exceptional score and book. Clark’s victory in the Best Actress category further highlighted the brilliance of her performance. In her acceptance speech, she paid tribute to her late father and grandmother and offered words of encouragement to those who feel like outsiders, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and belonging.

The Tony Awards made history with nonbinary actors taking the spotlight. Alex Newell, known for their role in “Glee,” won the award for Best Featured Actor in a Musical for their remarkable performance in the corn comedy “Shucked.” In an emotional acceptance speech, Newell expressed gratitude to their mother for teaching them strength and thanked the Broadway community for recognizing and embracing them. J. Harrison Ghee, who uses he/they pronouns, secured the Best Actor in a Musical award for their portrayal of a jazz musician exploring their gender identity in “Some Like It Hot.”

Ghee’s win marked the second time in Tony history that an openly nonbinary performer received an acting award. Their heartfelt speech acknowledged the struggles faced by transgender and nonbinary individuals and served as an inspiration for others seeking acceptance and representation.

Bonnie Milligan’s win for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her role in “Kimberly Akimbo” brought an uplifting moment to the ceremony. Milligan’s portrayal of the hilarious and nuanced character of Aunt Debra resonated with audiences. During her acceptance speech, she shared an emotional tribute to her late father and grandmother and offered words of encouragement to individuals who may feel marginalized or different. Milligan’s own journey to Broadway, growing up with limited resources and connections, resonated with many aspiring artists.

Ariana DeBose, the host of the evening, kicked off the show with an unscripted opening number, showcasing her remarkable talent and setting the tone for the night. In a powerful moment, DeBose expressed support for the striking Writers Guild of America members and shed light on the impact of the strike on the ceremony. She emphasized the lack of scripted presentations and highlighted the improvisation of every presenter, adding an air of spontaneity and excitement to the event.

Denée Benton, known for her role in HBO’s “The Gilded Age,” made headlines with her pointed remarks about Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. While presenting an award, Benton compared DeSantis to a “grand wizard,” referring to a leader of the Ku Klux Klan. Her remarks received enthusiastic applause from the audience at the United Palace Theatre. Benton’s statement resonated with many, and fellow actress Sheryl Lee Ralph praised her on Twitter, acknowledging the significance of her words.

In a significant win, Jodie Comer, acclaimed for her role in BBC America’s “Killing Eve,” took home the award for Best Actress in a Play for her captivating performance in “Prima Facie.” The thought-provoking one-woman show delves into the challenging subject of sexual assault, with Comer portraying a lawyer named Tessa who confronts the system’s flaws after experiencing her own trauma. Comer highlighted the unique narrative control her character possessed and expressed her admiration for Tessa’s strength and resilience. She also spoke about the profound impact the play has had on survivors and the letters she receives weekly, underscoring the importance of telling these stories and providing support to those affected.

Despite the Hollywood writers’ strike, the 2023 Tony Awards proved to be a successful and inspiring event. With powerful performances, historic wins, and memorable speeches, the theater community showcased its resilience and commitment to creativity and inclusion. The ceremony celebrated exceptional talent and highlighted stories that resonate with audiences, affirming the enduring impact of live theater.

The lack of response from professional athletes in Florida regarding the state’s alarming shift towards authoritarianism under DeSantis has been noticeable. However, Haslem joins the likes of NBA player Dwyane Wade, who left Florida after spending 13 years with the Miami Heat to protect his transgender daughter Zaya. Haslem and Wade understand the power they hold as influential athletes to effect change. Women athletes, particularly those in the WNBA, have long been at the forefront of political activism, leading movements for social justice, pay equity, and electoral influence. Haslem’s outspokenness aligns him with this tradition, and it is heartening to witness athletes using their platforms to challenge the status quo.

During a press conference ahead of Game 2 of the NBA Finals, Haslem urged people to stop “Florida-shaming” and recognized that not everyone in the state supports Ron DeSantis and his policies. As a Miami native and a longstanding member of the Miami Heat, Haslem is well-qualified to defend his state. He attended high school in Miami and the University of Florida, making him a true Floridian.

Haslem is acutely aware of the detrimental impact DeSantis’ policies, particularly those related to race, are having on his state. DeSantis has enacted legislation that hampers diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in state colleges, implemented book bans, and signed a bill banning the teaching of critical race theory in schools. These actions denigrate the experiences of Black Americans and contribute to a concerning list of policies that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

While some individuals in Florida may support DeSantis’ policies, there are also many who vehemently oppose them. Haslem’s disappointment stems from his role as a father of three Black sons, whom he wants to receive a comprehensive education that addresses the realities of their history. Although he cannot control the curriculum taught in schools, Haslem stresses the importance of voting and actively encouraging those around him to do the same.

Haslem’s sentiments regarding priorities in education versus gun control resonate with many Americans. He highlights the irony of complaining about school curricula while simultaneously making it easier to obtain assault rifles. The disconnect between addressing educational issues and the prevalence of gun violence is perplexing to Haslem, emphasizing why he chooses not to be a politician.
Haslem’s courage in speaking out against DeSantis’ policies serves as an inspiration. The nation needs more individuals like him who are unafraid to utilize their influence to challenge injustice and advocate for a better future.

Establishing Conservative Credentials:

Throughout his tour, DeSantis has been unapologetic in his conservative stance on critical issues such as abortion, immigration, government spending, crime, and LGBTQ rights. By drawing sharp contrasts with Trump, DeSantis portrays himself as a steadfast politician who remains true to his conservative principles. He suggests that Trump, during his time in the White House, compromised too readily and lost sight of his initial transformative agenda.

A Battle of Narratives:

In response to DeSantis’ rise, Trump’s camp has attempted to undermine his credibility by labeling him a “swamp puppet” and downplaying his accomplishments as Florida’s governor. Both candidates aim to distance themselves from the establishment, as being perceived as political outsiders remains an attractive quality within the Republican Party.

DeSantis’ Tour Strategy:

DeSantis’ strategic tour of early-voting states aims to position him as the biggest threat to Trump’s nomination. Despite attracting packed venues and supportive crowds, many voters remain undecided. During his speeches, DeSantis refrains from directly criticizing Trump by name but makes subtle references to issues like securing the U.S. southern border and emphasizing the importance of leadership over building a personal brand. This approach seeks to maintain support from Trump’s loyal base while signaling to voters that DeSantis represents a fresh perspective.

Taking the Gloves Off:

While DeSantis is cautious in public speeches, he is more candid in media interviews. He accuses Trump of shifting to the left during his presidency and criticizes his tendency to give opponents derogatory nicknames as “petty” and “juvenile.” DeSantis believes that such conduct played a role in Trump’s failure to secure re-election and suggests that the former president has lost touch with the ideals he championed in 2016.

Contrasting Records of Governance:

DeSantis emphasizes his own record as Florida’s governor, highlighting the implementation of numerous conservative reforms in collaboration with the Republican legislature. He underscores the importance of overcoming obstacles and resisting the temptation of making easy excuses. In contrast, Trump’s time in office is portrayed as a period of compromised principles and missed opportunities for transformative change.

Public Opinion:

According to a recent Reuters/Ipsos opinion poll conducted in May, Trump maintains a dominant lead in the Republican field with 49% support, while DeSantis follows closely behind with 19%. DeSantis’ message resonates with voters who value a consistent conservative approach, such as Doug Lambert, vice chair of the Belknap County Republican Party in New Hampshire. However, some voters, like Maureen Plyler, favor Trump’s business background and are skeptical of the escalating exchanges between the two candidates.

Strategic Messaging:

DeSantis adjusts his messaging to cater to different audiences. In states with a larger pool of independent voters, such as New Hampshire, he avoids mentioning Florida’s strict abortion ban. However, in Iowa and South Carolina, where evangelical Christians hold significant influence, he emphasizes his pro-life stance. DeSantis also distinguishes himself from the billionaire Trump by presenting himself as a “blue-collar kid” who has worked hard for his achievements. His inclusion of his wife, Casey DeSantis, and their young children on stage serves as a reminder that he represents a different generation from Trump.

Conclusion:

As Ron DeSantis challenges Donald Trump for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential race, he is strategically positioning himself as a more conservative and consistent alternative. The war of words between the two candidates underscores the intensity of the competition and the significance of DeSantis’ initial campaign strategy. While Trump maintains a commanding lead in the polls, DeSantis’ message resonates with conservative voters who seek a steadfast champion of their values. As the campaign unfolds, the contrasting narratives and strategies employed by DeSantis and Trump will shape the future of the Republican Party.

Scheduled for May 30, the kickoff event will mark the beginning of an ambitious four-day swing through 12 cities and towns across the early nominating states of Iowa, New Hampshire, and South Carolina. Aptly named “Our Great American Comeback Tour,” this tour is poised to serve as a platform for Governor DeSantis to share his vision for the nation.

Campaign manager Generra Peck expressed the campaign’s unwavering commitment to winning these early nominating states. In a statement provided to ABC News, Peck affirmed, “No one will work harder than Governor DeSantis to share his vision with the country—he has only begun to fight.” This dedication to making a lasting impact is evident in the extensive itinerary, which includes speeches, retail shop visits, and intimate fireside chats.

While Governor DeSantis has already visited key primary states in recent months, these upcoming visits hold particular significance as they mark his first official appearances as a presidential candidate. Building on his previous engagements, DeSantis aims to establish a stronger connection with voters, presenting himself as a viable choice for the nation’s highest office.

Earlier this month, DeSantis made waves in Iowa when he attended Rep. Randy Feenstra’s third annual Feenstra Family Picnic as a special guest. During his appearance, DeSantis presented a “positive alternative” to Republican voters, highlighting his vision for a brighter future.

The official launch of DeSantis‘ 2024 presidential bid took place just days ago. In a video announcement released prior to the campaign’s glitch-plagued Twitter Spaces event, the Florida governor declared his candidacy for the White House. With determination in his voice, DeSantis stated, “I am running for president of the United States to lead our great American comeback.”

In his campaign message, DeSantis made it clear that he believes the country is heading in the wrong direction. He expressed concern over a range of issues, including Democratic policies on the southern border, rising crime rates, public safety, and the escalating cost of living for middle-class families. With these concerns in mind, DeSantis aims to provide a compelling alternative to the status quo and position himself as a candidate who can bring about meaningful change.

The decision to launch his campaign in Iowa carries symbolic weight, as the state holds immense importance in the presidential primary process. Known for its influential caucuses, Iowa serves as a testing ground for candidates to gauge their appeal and gain momentum early on. By choosing to kick off his campaign there, DeSantis is signaling his commitment to winning over Iowa voters and building a solid foundation for his presidential aspirations.

As the political landscape evolves, Governor Ron DeSantis’s unconventional approach to launching his presidential campaign has certainly captured attention. With his “campaign kickoff” event in Iowa and subsequent tour of key states, DeSantis aims to solidify his position as a serious contender and set the stage for a transformative political journey. Only time will tell how this bold move will impact the trajectory of the 2024 presidential race.

D’Amaro explained that the decision was influenced by various factors, including changes in leadership and evolving business conditions. He acknowledged the difficulty of the choice but emphasized its appropriateness. Disney will no longer require employees to relocate and those who have already made the move will be individually consulted to discuss their situations, including the possibility of returning.

Under the leadership of then-CEO Bob Chapek, Disney initially unveiled the relocation plans in July 2021, announcing their intention to establish an employee campus slated to open between 2022 and 2023. However, due to various factors, the project experienced delays, ultimately pushing the anticipated opening to 2026.

D’Amaro expressed his belief in the significance of Disney’s talented workforce and assured employees that the transition would be handled with care and compassion. He maintained optimism regarding the future of Walt Disney World business, highlighting plans to invest $17 billion and create 13,000 jobs over the next decade.

The recent development follows a highly publicized clash between Disney and Florida Governor DeSantis. The dispute stemmed from what many perceive as a politically motivated response by Disney to the “Don’t Say Gay” law, which prohibits teaching about sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade.

In 2022, the former CEO of Disney, Bob Chapek, broke his initial silence on the matter and publicly criticized the “Don’t Say Gay” law during the company’s annual shareholder meeting.

In response to Disney’s actions, Governor DeSantis signed a bill granting him control over the company’s longstanding special tax district, formerly known as Reedy Creek. The political tension between the two parties persists, with Disney filing a lawsuit against DeSantis, accusing him of targeted retaliation.

In turn, the governor’s hand-selected Central Florida Tourism Oversight District board retaliated with a countersuit, alleging secretive agreements favoring Disney.

A spokesperson from Governor DeSantis‘ office, commenting on the project cancellation, mentioned that Disney’s Lake Nona campus was initially announced two years ago but had faced uncertainties and doubts about its realization. The spokesperson attributed Disney’s decision to restructure and cancel unsuccessful ventures to the company’s financial challenges, declining stock prices, and shrinking market capitalization.

The governor’s office previously criticized Disney, claiming that its actions reflected a desperate attempt to maintain special privileges while disregarding the will of the people of Florida, as expressed through their elected representatives.

Disney CEO Bob Iger has consistently defended the company’s position and denounced Governor DeSantis’ practices. During Disney’s second-quarter conference call, Iger questioned whether the state wanted the company to expand its investments, create more jobs, and contribute more taxes.

This cancellation of relocation plans marks another development in the ongoing conflict between Disney and the Florida governor, with the full impact on both parties yet to unfold.