The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has a new leader at the helm, Andrew Ferguson, who has pledged to address concerns about competition and free speech in the tech industry. As the newly appointed chairman, Ferguson aims to steer the FTC towards policies that promote fair business practices while revisiting the agency’s recent focus on antitrust issues.

Ferguson, known for his conservative stance, was nominated by President Joe Biden in 2023 and confirmed unanimously as one of the FTC’s commissioners. His leadership marks a shift in the agency’s approach, with a renewed emphasis on traditional enforcement methods rather than expansive rulemaking. This change is expected to align closely with the priorities set by the Trump administration, particularly in addressing what Ferguson views as anti-competitive behavior by major tech companies.

Ferguson’s background includes clerking for Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and serving as chief counsel to Senator Mitch McConnell. His experience in both private practice and government positions has prepared him for this role, where he will oversee cases involving deceptive business practices and monopolization claims against leading tech firms like Google, Apple, Amazon, and Meta.

Under Ferguson’s direction, the FTC is likely to pursue policy changes within these companies rather than seeking large-scale breakups. Additionally, Ferguson has expressed concerns about the politicization of social media platforms and the potential for government interference in free speech. These issues are expected to be central to his tenure as chairman.

Ferguson’s commitment to ending diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within the FTC has already sparked controversy. Critics argue that such actions could undermine efforts to create a more inclusive workplace. Despite this, Ferguson remains steadfast in his mission to implement what he believes are necessary reforms under the Trump administration’s guidance.

In an era where technology plays a crucial role in daily life, Ferguson’s leadership at the FTC promises to shape the future of consumer protection and competition in the digital age. By focusing on fair practices and reducing barriers to innovation, Ferguson aims to ensure that America remains a global leader in technology and entrepreneurship.