Can Lina Khan Hold On?

Lina Khan's term as chair of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) concluded on Wednesday, marking the end of a significant three-year period in which she reshaped antitrust enforcement in the U.S. At 35, she became the youngest person to hold this position and was known for her aggressive stance against major corporations. Under her leadership, the FTC attempted to ban noncompete clauses and blocked substantial mergers, including those involving Lockheed Martin and Nvidia. Khan's approach has garnered both support and criticism. Advocates argue that her efforts are vital for restoring active antitrust enforcement, which they believe has been neglected, harming consumers and market competition. Conversely, some bipartisan critics contend that she is overreaching the legal boundaries of antitrust law, potentially redefining key concepts like monopolization. Consumer advocates and certain conservatives have praised her populist initiatives, such as the FTC's warning to inhaler manufacturers regarding patent loopholes. However, some Democratic donors linked to finance and technology sectors have expressed a desire for Vice President Kamala Harris to replace Khan if she wins the upcoming presidential election. As Khan's term ends, the future of her leadership remains uncertain, with factions both supporting her continuation and advocating for her removal. The outcome will significantly influence the FTC's direction and the broader landscape of antitrust enforcement in the United States.