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In today’s …
23. December 2024
President-elect Donald Trump has named current commissioner Andrew Ferguson as the new Federal Trade Commission (FTC) chair, promising to ‘reverse Lina Khan’s anti-business agenda.’ The appointment has sparked both excitement and concern among consumer advocacy groups.
Ferguson will take over from Linda Khan, who drew criticism from tech giants for launching antitrust cases against Apple and Google. Trump praised Ferguson’s record of “standing up to Big Tech censorship” in a statement on Truth Social, saying he would ‘make sure America is the world’s technological leader and the best place for innovators to bring new ideas to life.’
Ferguson’s plans for the FTC are still unclear, but sources suggest that he will reverse many policies put in place by Khan, who has been a vocal advocate for consumer rights. However, some experts warn that Ferguson’s agenda may not prioritize consumer protection.
Under Khan’s leadership, the FTC took bold steps to regulate big tech, including banning non-compete clauses and going after companies like Google and Amazon for anti-competitive practices. Ferguson’s document outlining his vision for the FTC suggests he will undo much of this work, characterizing it as part of a “woke” agenda.
Ferguson’s appointment is also seen as a significant development in the ongoing struggle between tech giants and regulators. Companies like Google and Facebook have faced increased scrutiny over issues related to data privacy, antitrust, and censorship. With Ferguson at the helm, it remains to be seen how he will balance these competing interests.
Consumer advocacy groups are warning that they may face significant challenges in holding big tech firms accountable. “The FTC’s mission is to protect consumers and promote competition,” said a spokesperson for Consumer Watchdog. “We’re concerned that Ferguson’s appointment may undermine this critical work.”
Ferguson himself has promised to be tough on Silicon Valley, but his document suggests he will prioritize free speech and censorship over consumer protection. The new leadership at the FTC brings a significant shift in power, with Republicans now holding a majority on the commission.
As Trump begins his second term, many are wondering what this new leadership will bring for consumers and the tech industry. With Ferguson at the helm of the FTC, the stakes have never been higher.