Statement on the House Judiciary Committee Passage of Antitrust Bills

As the House Judiciary Committee concluded its markup of six antitrust bills, Demand Progress Executive Director David Segal issued the following statement:

“It is apparent that a sizable, cross-partisan set of members of the Judiciary Committee, and of Congress more broadly, are increasingly serious about addressing the unchecked influence of Big Tech. We hope that these members will come together and build a majority that makes Congress’s will clear. In particular, they must pass legislation that minimizes room for the courts to continue to undermine anti-monopoly policy, as they have for more than a generation.”

“Even as we make progress, it is apparent that many members - some of whom even posture about wanting to take on the power of Big Tech - are carrying water for the dominant online platforms. Many members are reciting Big Tech’s talking points and pushing their amendments. This is why it is necessary that Congress act to break these companies up and diminish their power of speech, the economy, and our government.”

"No matter what does or doesn't emerge from Congress in the coming weeks or months, it is vital that the Biden Administration use existing tools to rein in the power of these monopolies. The choice of Lina Khan to Chair the Federal Trade Commission is a tremendous step in this direction. It is imperative that others be installed in key positions - for instance at the Department of Justice and to fill a likely upcoming FTC commission vacancy - who will operate with the public interest top of mind.”