Concerns over bipartisanship at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) took center stage during a recent U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation meeting. Commissioner Slaughter expressed worries that the FTC has strayed from its collaborative roots, emphasizing the need for transparency and constructive debate among commissioners. In response, Slaughter affirmed her commitment to fostering a cooperative environment, stating, "Working with people who have different views from you is not only important, it's an incredible opportunity."

The meeting also highlighted critical safety issues, particularly regarding the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and its drowning prevention initiatives. Senator Klobuchar recalled her efforts in passing the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, which significantly reduced child drownings in public pools. She urged the CPSC to continue supporting these vital safety programs, to which CPSC representatives responded with a commitment to collaborate on pool safety issues.

Additionally, discussions turned to the FTC's increasing merger review workload, particularly in the tech sector. Senator Klobuchar noted the record levels of merger activity in 2021 and the ongoing antitrust cases against major tech companies, including Google. FTC officials provided updates on their efforts, with a focus on the Google Ad Tech case, highlighting the importance of existing laws in addressing competition challenges posed by big tech.

The meeting underscored the pressing need for effective regulatory oversight in both consumer safety and antitrust enforcement, with officials expressing a commitment to work collaboratively to tackle these significant issues. As the FTC and CPSC navigate these challenges, the emphasis on bipartisanship and cooperation remains crucial for their future effectiveness.