Trump Appoints New FTC Chair: Shift in Big Tech Regulation Looms

President-elect Donald Trump appoints Andrew Ferguson as FTC chair, signaling a shift in Big Tech regulation and free speech protection.

At a Glance

Trump selects Andrew Ferguson to lead the Federal Trade Commission.
Ferguson’s appointment aims to address Big Tech censorship and protect free speech.
The new FTC leadership may reshape antitrust enforcement and tech regulation.
Ferguson’s background includes experience as Virginia’s solicitor general.
Mark Meador chosen as FTC commissioner, bringing antitrust expertise.

Trump’s Strategic Appointment

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Andrew Ferguson as the new chairman of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), replacing current chair Lina Khan. This move signifies a potential shift in the agency’s approach to regulating Big Tech and protecting free speech in the digital age. Trump praised Ferguson for his stance against online censorship and his commitment to safeguarding freedom of expression.

“President-elect Donald Trump has selected Andrew Ferguson as his choice for Federal Trade Commission chair.” – Donald Trump

Ferguson, currently serving as an FTC commissioner, has been vocal about addressing the impact of Big Tech on competition and free speech. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to tackle the challenges of political bias and censorship within major technology companies.

Thank you President Trump. Under your leadership, American businesses will become stronger and more competitive, and will better serve workers and consumers, than ever before. I’m honored that you’ve chosen me to be FTC Chairman in your mission to make our country great again.… pic.twitter.com/GxmYWfjpqm

— Andrew Ferguson (@AFergusonFTC) December 11, 2024

Ferguson’s Background and Approach

Andrew Ferguson brings a unique perspective to his new role, having previously served as Virginia’s solicitor general. His background includes working with Senate Republican leaders and clerking for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas. Ferguson’s experience has given him insight into the complexities of online censorship and the collusive behavior in the advertising industry that affects free speech platforms.

“Andrew has a proven record of standing up to Big Tech censorship, and protecting Freedom of Speech in our Great Country. Andrew will be the most America First, and pro-innovation FTC Chair in our Country’s History.” – Trump

Ferguson’s approach is characterized as pragmatic and not bound to any particular ideological camp. This balanced perspective is viewed positively for addressing issues like censorship and political bias in the tech industry. He has been critical of the current Democrat-led FTC’s stance on certain issues, including their approach to “AI safety experts.”

Potential Changes in FTC Policy

Under Ferguson’s leadership, the FTC is expected to undergo significant changes in its policy framework. He has opposed several of Khan’s rulemaking efforts, such as banning non-compete clauses and easing subscription cancellations. This suggests a potential shift in the agency’s regulatory approach.

The new administration may reassess ongoing FTC investigations and alter the agency’s approach to antitrust enforcement. While there is speculation about a more lenient stance towards large corporations, Ferguson’s leadership is expected to continue actions against major tech platforms, balancing libertarian and anti-monopolist perspectives.

Impact on Tech Industry and Free Speech

Ferguson’s appointment is likely to have significant implications for the tech industry and the protection of free speech online. He has been supportive of Elon Musk’s ownership of social media platform X, recognizing the platform’s shift towards free expression under new ownership.

The FTC under Ferguson is expected to champion the cause of maintaining open digital platforms while safeguarding consumer rights. This approach aims to referee fair play in the increasingly monopolized tech ecosystem, addressing concerns about political bias and censorship within Big Tech companies.

As the new FTC chair, Ferguson’s leadership promises to usher in a transformative era in how the agency handles issues related to free speech and market practices in the digital domain. His appointment represents a strategic move by the Trump administration to address the complex challenges facing the tech industry and protect the principles of free expression in the digital age.