Elizabeth Warren Criticizes Netflix-Warner Bros Deal as a 'Nightmare of Anti-Monopoly'

Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) voiced strong opposition on Friday to Netflixs planned acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, after reports confirmed that WBD accepted the streaming platforms $82.7 billion offer. Warren warned that the merger could become a monopoly nightmare.

A combined Netflix-Warner Bros. would result in an enormous media powerhouse, controlling nearly half of the streaming industry. Consumers could face higher costs, fewer viewing options, and potential risks for American workers, Warren posted on X.

She added, Under the Trump administration, antitrust oversight has often been tainted by political favoritism and corruption. The Justice Department must uphold our anti-monopoly laws transparently and fairly, rather than allowing this deal to become a conduit for influence-peddling or bribery.

Netflix responded on Friday, expressing confidence in obtaining regulatory approval for the acquisition of Warner Bros. streaming and studio operations. This transaction benefits consumers, encourages innovation, supports workers and creators, and drives growth. We are committed to collaborating with governments and regulators and are confident in securing all necessary approvals, said Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos.

He added, Both companies complement each other well, and each is a brand beloved by audiences, which makes this combination exciting.

Previously, Warren had also opposed Paramounts attempt to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, labeling it a strategy that would lead to higher prices. In November, she, along with Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), urged the Department of Justice to conduct any antitrust review of such mergers transparently and independently, in strict compliance with federal laws.

Fair enforcement of antitrust and telecommunications regulations is vital for market growth and economic stability for working families, they wrote. The DOJ must ensure that its review of Warner Bros. transactions is guided by the law, not political favoritism.

Author: Grace Ellison