FTC Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson has implemented a policy barring political appointees from engaging with the American Bar Association, citing concerns over partisanship and conflicts of interest.
At a Glance
- FTC political appointees prohibited from holding ABA leadership roles and attending events
- Decision based on allegations of ABA’s left-wing bias and alignment with Big Tech
- FTC to terminate financial support for employees’ ABA memberships
- Move aims to maintain separation between regulatory activities and external influences
- Critics warn of potential isolation from legal community
FTC Cuts Ties with ABA
Recently-appointed Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson has announced a new policy that severely restricts the agency’s engagement with the American Bar Association (ABA). The decision, which prohibits political appointees from holding leadership positions in the ABA or participating in its events, marks a significant shift in the FTC’s approach to external affiliations.
“The FTC’s senior leadership should not lend a patina of nonpartisan legitimacy to an organization guided by the principles of the Democrat Party and the priorities of Big Tech,” Chairman Ferguson said.
The policy change stems from allegations that the ABA has become a “radical left-wing” body with partisan leanings. Ferguson accused the organization of “leftist advocacy and its recent attacks” on conservative values, raising concerns about the integrity of the FTC’s regulatory activities.
One of the primary motivations behind the policy change is the “cozy relationship” between federal antitrust enforcers and the ABA’s Antitrust Law Section. Ferguson argues that this close association could potentially compromise the FTC’s enforcement efforts.
“The coziness of the relationship risks the suggestion that a desire for future employment at one of these law firms could blunt the vigor of the FTC’s enforcement program,” Ferguson explained.
The Chairman also highlighted the ABA’s opposition to the American Innovation and Choice Online Act as evidence of its alignment with corporate interests, particularly those of Big Tech companies. This stance has raised questions about the organization’s ability to remain impartial in matters of antitrust and consumer protection.
Financial Implications and Broader Impact
The new policy extends beyond just limiting participation in ABA activities. The FTC will also cease providing financial support for employees’ ABA memberships or related activities. This decision aligns with broader efforts under the Trump administration to reduce waste and perceived bias in government agencies.
“The ABA received more than $22 million from USAID and nearly $17 million from the State Department in taxpayer-funded grants and contracts in the last 12 months alone,” Ferguson revealed, highlighting the significant financial ties between the ABA and government agencies.
Republican Commissioner Melissa Holyoak has already announced her compliance with the new policy, stating on social media, “I will no longer be participating in ABA events.” This move signals a united front among the FTC’s leadership in implementing the changes.
While critics argue that this decision could isolate the FTC from the broader legal community, Ferguson defends it as necessary to protect the agency’s integrity and focus on its core mission.
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