Discover Who’s Missing in the Free Market Debate!

In a recent Financial Times article, there are some intriguing statements regarding Gail Slater, a key player in Donald Trump’s administration (“Trump Nominee Unites Right and Left with Tough Antitrust View,” Financial Times March 7, 2025). Here are some key takeaways from the article:

• Slater, chosen by Trump for the Justice Department’s antitrust division, is not your typical conservative free market advocate. She is expected to uphold the rigorous antitrust enforcement initiated by the Biden administration, much to the dismay of Wall Street.

• Slater represents a rare alliance between progressives advocating for tough antitrust measures and a new wave of populist conservatives.

Despite the prevailing narrative, where are the traditional conservative free market advocates in Trump’s circle? It seems they are either hidden or complicit in their silence. Trump’s stance on free trade and economic policies diverges from traditional free-market principles.

Indeed, the alignment between progressives and populist conservatives is not as surprising as it may seem. Throughout history, leaders on both sides of the political spectrum have favored collective decisions over individual liberties, as seen in Latin American politics.

The power of antitrust laws gives the government significant influence, often used to support favored groups and target dissenters. Recent actions by the Department of Justice under Trump’s administration indicate a potential misuse of power, fueling concerns about political witch-hunts.

While previous administrations maintained a level of independence in agencies like the FBI and Justice Department, Trump’s tightening grip on these institutions raises red flags. The erosion of this separation between politics and justice poses a threat to individual freedoms.

In conclusion, amidst Trump’s interventions and control over law enforcement agencies, the defense of individual liberty is at risk. It’s crucial to remain vigilant against the encroachment of state power and uphold the principles of justice and democratic values.