In a sharp escalation of rhetoric, former President Donald Trump publicly urged Netflix to remove board member Susan Rice, warning of repercussions if the streaming giant fails to act. The demand comes as federal regulators continue reviewing Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, placing the company under heightened political and legal scrutiny.
The controversy unfolded late Saturday when Trump took to Truth Social to criticize Rice, calling her unqualified and politically motivated. His comments followed remarks Rice made during a recent podcast appearance, where she suggested that corporations aligning too closely with Trump could face consequences if Democrats regain control of Congress in the November midterm elections.
Trump’s online post described Rice — who previously served as domestic policy adviser to President Joe Biden and held senior foreign policy roles under President Barack Obama — as lacking credibility and influence. He declared that her political power had permanently diminished and argued that Netflix should distance itself from her or face fallout.
Rice Warns Corporations About Political Risk
During a conversation with former federal prosecutor Preet Bharara, Rice expressed concern about corporate leaders and institutions that, in her view, had shown deference to Trump. She argued that such decisions could backfire if political power shifts.
Rice cautioned that businesses, media organizations, and law firms that “bent the knee” might find themselves exposed if Democrats return to office. She suggested that accountability measures could follow, particularly for companies that she believes compromised policies, personnel decisions, or legal standards.
“If corporations think they’ll simply be forgiven and allowed to return to business as usual, they may be mistaken,” Rice said, emphasizing that political tides can shift quickly and dramatically.
Rice first joined Netflix’s board in 2018, stepped away in 2021 to serve in the Biden administration, and returned to the board in 2023 after leaving public office.
Netflix Stays Silent as Deal Faces DOJ Review
A spokesperson for Netflix declined to comment on Trump’s remarks, and the White House did not immediately respond to inquiries about the situation.
Trump’s criticism also amplified an earlier social media post by activist Laura Loomer, who labeled Rice’s comments as unpatriotic and called for regulatory intervention in Netflix’s pending deal with Warner Bros. Discovery. Loomer even tagged Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr in her message, urging scrutiny of the transaction.
The timing of Trump’s demand is significant. The U.S. Department of Justice is currently examining Netflix’s proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, a move that would reshape the entertainment landscape. Notably, the proposed deal excludes Warner’s cable assets, including CNN.
Earlier this month, Trump told NBC News that the DOJ would independently handle the review process, stating he would not interfere — despite previously signaling he might take a more active role.
Antitrust Concerns Under the Microscope
Federal regulators are investigating whether the acquisition could reduce competition in the media and streaming sectors. According to reports from The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg, the DOJ is also exploring whether Netflix’s previous acquisitions have impacted competition for creative talent.
Additionally, regulators are reviewing claims that Netflix may use anticompetitive tactics when negotiating with independent content creators and production companies.
Steve Sunshine, outside counsel for Netflix and head of the global antitrust practice at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, said the firm has not received notice of a monopolization investigation from the DOJ.
Netflix’s Chief Legal Officer, David Hyman, defended the company’s position, stating that Netflix operates in a highly competitive market environment. He rejected allegations of monopolistic behavior, asserting that the company neither holds monopoly power nor engages in exclusionary practices. Hyman added that Netflix would cooperate fully with regulators.
Meanwhile, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos expressed optimism about securing approval for the deal, describing it as beneficial for consumers, workers, and innovation within the industry.
High Stakes for Streaming’s Future
The unfolding situation underscores the intersection of politics, corporate governance, and media consolidation. As the DOJ continues its review, and as political tensions intensify ahead of the midterms, Netflix finds itself navigating both regulatory challenges and public political pressure.
Whether Trump’s call for Rice’s dismissal gains traction remains to be seen. However, the broader debate over corporate accountability, political influence, and market competition is likely to persist — especially as one of the entertainment industry’s most significant mergers hangs in the balance.
In the coming weeks, both regulators and investors will be watching closely to see how Netflix responds — not only to federal investigators, but also to the mounting political spotlight.
