Trump Taps Andrew Ferguson as FTC Chair: A New Era for Antitrust Policy?
Staff Editor Trump Taps Andrew Ferguson as New FTC Chair, Signaling Shift in Antitrust Approach
President-elect Donald Trump has announced the appointment of Andrew Ferguson as the new chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), replacing current chair Lina Khan. Ferguson, already one of the FTC’s five commissioners, will lead an agency currently composed of three Democrats and two Republicans.
In his announcement, Trump praised Ferguson for his stance against Big Tech censorship and commitment to free speech. The President-elect emphasized Ferguson’s alignment with “America First” and pro-innovation policies, signaling a potential shift in the agency’s focus.
Under Ferguson’s leadership, the FTC is expected to adopt a more business-friendly approach to antitrust enforcement. This change could lead to the appointment of new directors for the FTC’s antitrust and consumer protection divisions, potentially reshaping the agency’s operational priorities.
Analysts suggest that Ferguson’s appointment may result in a more favorable environment for businesses, particularly in terms of merger approvals. Previously blocked deals, such as the Kroger and Albertsons merger, might be reconsidered under the new leadership.
However, ongoing public concerns over issues like high grocery prices may continue to influence the FTC’s actions. Despite the potential shift in approach, the Trump administration is expected to maintain scrutiny of Big Tech companies for anticompetitive behavior.
The appointment comes amid a complex political landscape, with some Republican politicians supporting continued scrutiny of Big Tech, aligning with certain policies pursued by Khan during her tenure.
In a related move, Trump also announced Jacob Helberg as the next undersecretary of state for economic growth, energy, and the environment, further shaping his administration’s economic team.
