During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and its leadership under Chair Lina Khan. The discussions highlighted a perceived decline in the FTC's reputation for ethics and integrity, particularly over the past two years. A notable point of contention was the lack of oversight hearings for Chair Khan, who has not appeared before the committee since her confirmation in April 2021, leading to accusations of a \"disastrous tenure.\"

Senators expressed frustration over the conduct of the FTC, particularly regarding the handling of dissenting opinions. Former Commissioner Christine Wilson's resignation was cited, where she criticized the majority's decision to redact parts of her dissent that questioned Khan's impartiality in adjudicating cases involving Facebook. The redactions were described as unprecedented, with allegations that they were made to obscure serious ethical concerns raised by the FTC's ethics staff.

In response to these allegations, one commissioner defended the redaction process, citing a long-standing commission rule that protects staff deliberations from public disclosure. This rule, established in the 1980s, aims to ensure that staff can provide candid advice without fear of public scrutiny. The commissioner emphasized the importance of maintaining this confidentiality to foster open communication within the agency.

The meeting underscored a growing divide within the FTC and raised questions about the agency's commitment to transparency and ethical governance. As the discussions continue, the future of the FTC's leadership and its operational integrity remains under scrutiny.