AT&T Cleared by Judge to Buy Time Warner

The transcript discusses the Department of Justice's (DOJ) decision to pursue a lawsuit against a vertical deal, highlighting the risks involved and the potential impact on antitrust laws. The new head of the Antitrust Division strongly supported the case, despite the risk of losing. The DOJ's argument focused on this specific deal, but a win could have set a precedent affecting all vertical deals. Political influences, including Trump's campaign promises, played a role in the DOJ's stance. The case's outcome could deter future vertical deals due to the potential for legal challenges.

What was the main reason the Department of Justice decided to pursue the lawsuit?

• To oppose a specific vertical deal

• To challenge horizontal deals

• To support Trump's campaign promises

• To test the new head of the Antitrust Division's resolve

What was a potential consequence of the lawsuit's outcome?

• It could lead to more horizontal deals

• It could result in a new head of the Antitrust Division

• It could increase DOJ's budget

• It could shape future antitrust laws

How did the Department of Justice feel about the risk of losing the case?

• They were indifferent to the outcome

• They were embarrassed but aware of the risks

• They were confident of winning

• They were unaware of the risks

What was the DOJ's argument primarily against?

• Horizontal deals

• This specific vertical deal

• All types of mergers

• All vertical deals

What was Trump's stance on the vertical deal during his campaign?

• He opposed it

• He was indifferent

• He supported it

• He had no opinion