Central Florida theme parks donate to political campaigns

Leah Zanolla | Posted: Oct 7, 2012 | Updated: Oct 19, 2014 - 9:25:27 AM

The theme parks in Central Florida are known for their charitable contributions, but lesser-known are their political donations. In this election, Walt Disney World has given almost $2.5 million to Florida political groups; 90% went to Republican groups. In contrast, 83% of their free gifts, such as park tickets, have gone to Democrats; a total of $313,000 has been given out.

SeaWorld has given 80% of their money to Republicans as well, for a total of $160,000. SeaWorld's freebies have gone solely to Democrats, totaling $2,000.

Universal Orlando has doled out only about $70,000, with 60% received by Republicans. Their freebie total is far above the other two parks, having given out $360,000 worth of tickets, hotels rooms and food. Florida's Republican party holds their annual pre-session legislative fundraiser at Universal, but only received $3,000 worth of the free gifts.