Legal AF by MeidasTouch Wow: Trump Suddenly Fires Top DOJ Official
Feb 14, 2026
Breaking news about a sudden firing at the DOJ’s antitrust division and why it matters to competition. A rundown of clashes over major media and tech deals, including scrutiny of Apple, Google and YouTube. Discussion of lobbying, alleged corruption, and signals from high-profile pardons. Context on wider DOJ personnel shakeups and what that could mean for enforcement.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Antitrust Division Protects Consumer Prices
- Michael Popok asserts the DOJ Antitrust Division enforces mergers to protect consumers from higher prices and reduced competition.
- He frames Abigail Slater as a career antitrust lawyer who actively pursued major media and tech combinations during her tenure.
Presidential Influence Risks Antitrust Independence
- Popok argues Trump's influence has corrupted the antitrust division by favoring acquisitions that benefit his allies.
- He highlights the Warner Brothers/CNN deal as a flashpoint where presidential bias could skew DOJ decisions.
Trump's 'Tell' On Noninvolvement
- Popok recounts Trump's public