WASHINGTON - The head of the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division firmly rejected claims that political ties could ease regulatory approval for Paramount’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery.
"The idea that somehow enforcement has been politicized is ludicrous," said Acting Assistant Attorney General Omeed Assefi in a Wednesday interview.
Assefi emphasized that no company receives preferential treatment, citing Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos’ praise for a “fair and thorough” DOJ review before Netflix withdrew its competing bid.
Paramount argues its deal raises fewer antitrust concerns than Netflix’s abandoned offer. California Attorney General Rob Bonta confirmed his office is investigating the transaction.