Legal AF by MeidasTouch Trump Suddenly Fires TOP DOJ Official
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Feb 14, 2026 Breaking DOJ personnel shakeups tied to antitrust fights and a high-profile firing. A tangled takeover tale involving Warner/Paramount, the Ellisons and CNN. Scrutiny of tech companies that donated to Trump and antitrust probes into Apple and Google. Conversations about lobbying, possible capture of enforcement, pardons, and broader DOJ turnover.
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Antitrust Independence Undermined
- Abigail Slater's firing shows the Trump DOJ is reshaping antitrust enforcement to favor allies.
- Michael Popok argues this change reduces independent checks that protect consumers from higher prices.
Slater Targeted Big Tech And Media Deals
- Slater had actively pursued major tech and media mergers, including Warner Brothers and Paramount-related deals.
- Her enforcement threatened consolidation that would let firms raise prices and reduce competition, Popok explains.
Firing Tied To Control Over CNN
- Popok links Slater's firing to Trump's desire to influence who acquires CNN and other Warner assets.
- He contends Trump removed her to clear the path for the Ellison family's acquisition plans.