President-elect Donald Trump’s selection of Gail Slater to head the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division has the tech industry on alert. Slater’s nomination suggests the administration is serious about addressing issues like monopolistic practices and corporate overreach that have gone unchecked for years.
Slater’s experience spans both government service and leadership roles in the private sector, making her uniquely equipped to lead the antitrust division. With time at companies like Fox and Roku, she understands how corporate strategies can hinder competition and limit market access for smaller businesses.
Trump’s choice is seen as a direct challenge to Silicon Valley, where companies like Google and Meta have faced criticism for dominating the tech landscape.
While antitrust enforcement under previous administrations was often criticized as performative, Slater’s track record suggests she will take a more proactive approach. Her work reflects a commitment to addressing unfair practices without targeting success itself, staying aligned with free-market principles.
Big Tech has also been criticized for its treatment of Trump and his supporters, including bans on platforms like Facebook and YouTube. The administration appears ready to address these concerns while focusing on broader market reforms.
For companies like Google and Meta, the message is clear: regulatory scrutiny is increasing, and the days of unchecked market power may be coming to an end.
