DeSantis’ public statements are not stupid; they are calculated.
It comes down to a simple question: Would DeSantis rather win the Republican Primary or the Disney lawsuit?
NBC News covers his strategy in this May 8 article:
Ron DeSantis bets big on his Disney feud
DeSantis cannot win the general if he doesn't win the primary, meaning he has to appeal to those "Ultra MAGA Republicans" President Biden rails against.
Earlier this year when it looked like Disney was just going to roll over and let DeSantis have his way, there was a view among some that this was bad for DeSantis. A victory in early 2023 is quickly forgotten by primary season.
By fighting back, Disney might very well be helping DeSantis among those he needs the most.
According to the previously mentioned NBC News article, three different surveys all say the same thing: Republicans are siding with DeSantis.
DeSantis doesn't particularly care who controls Disney. He just needs to keep the lawsuit alive through primary season.