Internal Disputes Challenge Trump Administration's Antitrust Strategies

Conflicts have surfaced concerning the Justice Department's antitrust efforts, leading to discussions within the Trump administration about potentially replacing some division staff or resolving these tensions, various sources indicate.

Gail Slater, overseeing the Justice Department's antitrust division since March, has been managing lawsuits involving big corporations like Capital One. Although she retains backing from high-level administration officials, she and certain team members have drawn criticism from both colleagues and businesses, according to insiders.

A White House meeting involving Slater and other top officials has been scheduled to concentrate on merger strategies. Attendees will include representatives from the Office of Management and Budget, the National Economic Council, and the Federal Trade Commission.

Debates have erupted regarding how investigations into companies like T-Mobile and Hewlett Packard Enterprise are being handled. The antitrust division is integral in enforcing laws that prevent monopolistic practices harming consumers.

Although Slater is respected by both MAGA supporters and liberal watchdogs, she has not opted for a hardline stance against mergers. Nonetheless, some Trump advisors have complained about significant internal negotiations needed for resolving merger disputes, as mentioned by three sources.

There is ongoing debate within the NEC, FTC, and other segments regarding whether Slater is aligned with President Trump's policies or pursuing an independent agenda.

Slater has warned firms against engaging via Trump-supporting lobbyists and consultants, which has frustrated business leaders to the point they have contacted White House figures questioning these restrictions.

Reports claim that during a meeting with Hewlett Packard Enterprise officials regarding its proposed acquisition of Juniper Networks, Slater insisted on direct interactions with the Justice Department, excluding third-party consultants affiliated with Trump.

Attorney General Pam Bondi and her associates are aware of the internal conflicts surrounding the antitrust division.

Despite the Justice Department's lawsuit against Hewlett Packard Enterprise's acquisition of Juniper in January, which was settled in June, there have been instances where Bondi's chief of staff, Chad Mizelle, intervened, overruling Slater to accept settlement terms considered favorable.

While some administration members have commended Slater for her ethical standards and skepticism towards influential Trump supporters aiming to sway confidential legal outcomes, others have highlighted her widespread Senate approval during confirmation.

FTC Commissioner Mark Meador has described Slater as a trustworthy ally, emphasizing the collaborative mission between the FTC and DOJ.

Notably, Slater's team has expedited the closure of numerous investigations compared to the statutory timeframes utilized by the Biden administration.

In another departure from her predecessors, Slater permitted the merger between Capital One and Discover to proceed, despite contrasting intentions by the Biden antitrust team.

Jennifer Jacobs covers the White House for CBS News.