The Trump administration has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing antitrust cases against Amazon and Meta, signaling a continued crackdown on Big Tech’s market dominance. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Andrew Ferguson stated that these ongoing cases will proceed, emphasizing a dedication to “holding Big Tech’s feet to the fire.”
Ferguson, appointed by President Donald Trump, aims to counteract anti-competitive behaviors within the tech industry. He has expressed concerns over Big Tech’s influence on free speech and competition, initiating a public inquiry into how tech platforms may restrict user access based on speech content or affiliations. This move addresses longstanding concerns that major tech platforms censor conservative viewpoints. The inquiry invites public input on the FTC’s website until May 21, seeking to understand practices like “shadow banning,” where user visibility is limited without clear reasons or recourse.
In parallel, President Trump has tightened control over traditionally independent U.S. government agencies, including the FTC, through an executive order. This directive allows the White House to influence the budget and policies of entities such as the Federal Election Commission and the Securities and Exchange Commission. The administration asserts that this increased oversight will enhance accountability and reduce regulations perceived as burdensome.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) is also maintaining its focus on antitrust enforcement under Trump’s leadership. Gail Slater, nominated to head the DOJ’s Antitrust Division, has indicated an aggressive stance toward antitrust enforcement, particularly targeting Big Tech companies. Slater emphasized the importance of protecting conservative businesses from perceived collusion and market concentration, suggesting a strategic, evidence-based approach to enforcement.
These developments reflect a broader effort by the Trump administration to expand presidential influence over regulatory bodies and address concerns about Big Tech’s role in the marketplace and public discourse. The administration’s actions suggest a continued focus on scrutinizing and potentially curbing the power of major technology firms.
