The U.S. Department of Justice’s newly appointed antitrust chief, Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater, is reviewing the division’s reliance on costly economic consultants as part of President Donald Trump’s federal cost-cutting initiative. In an internal memo, Slater emphasized the need to maximize the expertise of in-house economists before seeking external help, addressing concerns over legal expenses that can reach $30 million per case.
Slater reaffirmed the DOJ’s commitment to tackling inflation and ensuring competitive markets, aligning with Trump’s focus on consumer affordability. "Pocketbook issues are a priority in an era of rising prices," she stated, underscoring the department’s role in addressing anticompetitive practices that could impact U.S. consumers.
National security concerns are also a key focus, particularly in artificial intelligence, 5G, and quantum computing. Slater noted that maintaining competitive markets is crucial for the U.S. to stay ahead in these global technological races, signaling potential scrutiny of mergers and monopolistic behavior in these sectors.
This move reflects a balancing act between robust antitrust enforcement and Trump’s cost-reduction agenda, spearheaded by his advisor Elon Musk under the Department of Government Efficiency. With an emphasis on efficiency and strategic resource allocation, the DOJ aims to uphold market fairness while cutting unnecessary expenditures.