In his op-ed, Public Policy Solutions President Joe Grogan argues that Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. is not only pro-consumer but also pro-growth, innovation, and American creative leadership. He criticizes the current antitrust scrutiny, particularly under the Biden-era FTC, as overly hostile to business and driven by ideological biases rather than sound economic principles.
Grogan highlights Netflix’s track record of innovation and strong finances, asserting that combining its global distribution platform with Warner’s storied production capabilities will increase content, jobs, and consumer value without harming competition.
In his op-ed, Grogan writes:
This justifiable outrage risks overshadowing the merits of the transaction itself. Netflix is undeniably an American success story built on innovation and disciplined risk-taking. From challenging Blockbuster’s dominance in the late 1990s to its bet-the-company pivot to streaming in 2007, years ahead of most competitors, the company has consistently innovated. Netflix maintains a clean balance sheet and is financing its bid through conventional, U.S.-based lending sources.
Operationally, Netflix’s proposed vertical integration would keep Warner Bros.’ historic Los Angeles studio fully active and ultimately expand production nationwide to meet Netflix’s sustained demand for premium content. That growth would support job creation, strengthen American creative leadership, and align with President Trump’s goal of bringing runaway film and television production back to the United States. By pairing its advanced global distribution platform with Warner Bros.’ storytelling and production expertise, Netflix proposes growth-driven collaboration. From the only legally relevant antitrust perspective, consumer welfare, the deal promises more content at lower prices. It is the opposite of “shrinkflation” in the streaming economy.
Read the full article at the DC Journal.