PULSE POINTS:
What Happened: The Justice Department has called on a federal judge to require Google to surrender control over its Chrome web browser due to antitrust concerns.
Who’s Involved: Key figures include Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, Assistant Attorney General for Antitrust Gail Slater, Justice Department official David Dahlquist, and U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta.
Where & When: The remarks were made in court on Monday; the proceedings occurred in the United States.
Key Quote: “As a monopolist, Google uses its market power against the American people.” — Deputy Attorney General Blanche.
Impact: Potentially significant changes in control of Google’s Chrome web browser and broader implications for competition within the global search market.
IN FULL:
In a significant development in antitrust proceedings against Google, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) urged a district judge on Monday to compel Google to divest ownership of the Chrome web browser. The call comes as part of ongoing efforts to address Google’s dominant role in the global search market. Some allege the dominance is maintained through illegal agreements that hinder competition and negatively affect consumers and advertisers.
In court, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche cited Google’s monopolistic practices, emphasizing the company’s extensive influence over online data and alleged political bias through its search engine operations. Deputy Attorney General Blanche told U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta, “As a monopolist, Google uses its market power against the American people.”
He argued that Google’s control stems largely from its nearly $20 billion annual payment to Apple, securing Google’s search engine as the default on Apple’s Safari browser. This payment was highlighted during a trial last year focusing on liability.
U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta has previously recognized Google’s monopolistic behaviors. Mehta is now tasked with assessing the remedy phase of this case. Assistant Attorney General for Antitrust Gail Slater highlighted the bipartisan nature of the case. Slater noted the involvement of 49 states alongside federal authorities in challenging Google’s competitive practices.
DOJ official David Dahlquist referred to the current situation as a pivotal moment for restoring market competition. The Trump DOJ’s stance reflects a continued commitment to ensuring monopolistic behaviors do not compromise competition in the digital market.
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