Geoff Morrell was named the company’s chief corporate affairs officer in December. Disney has made headlines during Morrell’s tenure for a contentious battle with Florida politicians. In late April, Florida legislators voted to remove Disney’s self-governing status for its Walt Disney World theme park.

Disney’s chief corporate affairs officer Geoff Morrell is leaving the company after being appointed to the new position in December 2021. Morrell’s position was newly created upon his hiring and combined functions across communications, policy, government relations, and other areas. It is unclear how Disney’s shift in leadership may affect the company’s approach to the ongoing dispute.

Disney CEO Bob Chapek will reportedly not replace Morrell. Kristina Schake, who served in the Obama and Biden administrations, will be the company’s top communications executive. Residents of Osceola County, Florida, have sued Florida governor Ron DeSantis, claiming that he violated their rights.

Disney could use the opportunity to shift the narrative. The suit alleges that Florida taxpayers will be saddled with more than $1 billion in Disney’s bond debt upon dissolution of the district. Disney’s chief corporate affairs officer Geoff Morrell is parting ways with the company after just four months.