White House played central role in antitrust probe of TV networks
Multiple people told Semafor that the idea of an inquiry was first discussed inside the White House before being pursued by the DOJ.
The White House took a leading role in the Justice Department's antitrust investigation into major TV networks' temporary suspension of pooled coverage of the president, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The probe is ongoing, but some DOJ officials have expressed doubts about its legal merits. Two former DOJ officials noted that networks suspending their pool participation after three news outlets were barred from the White House likely benefited from First Amendment protections, citing a 1982 Supreme Court ruling.
The idea of an antitrust inquiry was reportedly initially discussed inside the White House, which pushed for it from the DOJ. A DOJ official denied that the White House first raised the idea, stating that the antitrust division within the Justice Department first discussed it. The deep connection between the DOJ and the White House under President Donald Trump was highlighted, with former chief of staff at the antitrust division now working for the White House.
The ongoing investigation has also drawn attention from MAGA allies, with one Twitter user questioning why the DOJ hadn't filed an antitrust lawsuit against outlets that allegedly colluded to refuse coverage of President Trump.
Written by urgent.news from Semafor's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
