Story perspectives

Antitrust Chief Resigns Amid Trump Administration Tensions

2/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Gail Slater, head of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division, resigned on February 12, 2026, after a year of conflicts with senior officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Slater blocked a significant merger, triggering tensions with the Trump administration.
Acting head Omeed Assefi is expected to take over temporarily.
Her tenure emphasized rigorous antitrust enforcement, which some viewed as misaligned with the administration's pro-business stance, sparking questions about future policy.

History

Historical Context

In 1974, the U.S. Department of Justice initiated a landmark antitrust case against AT&T, leading to the breakup of the company and the divestiture of seven regional Bell companies. This decision reshaped the telecommunications landscape, impacting millions of consumers. Gail Slater's recent resignation highlights ongoing tensions between antitrust enforcement and pro-business policies, reflecting historical conflicts over corporate regulation in the U.S.

1 of 2

Story summary

Gail Slater, head of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division, resigned on February 12, 2026, after a year of conflicts with senior officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi.
Slater blocked a significant merger, triggering tensions with the Trump administration.
Acting head Omeed Assefi is expected to take over temporarily.
Her tenure emphasized rigorous antitrust enforcement, which some viewed as misaligned with the administration's pro-business stance, sparking questions about future policy.

1 / 2