Warner Bros. Discovery Sale Sparks Regulatory Concerns Over Tech Monopolies

By Ken Buck
Wednesday, 05 November 2025 05:07 PM EST

Warner Bros. Discovery announced this month that it is officially putting itself up for sale after receiving “unsolicited interest” from “multiple parties.” Potential buyers rumored to be in the mix include Amazon, Apple, Netflix, and Google. This development has raised alarms among regulators and consumers about the concentration of media power in the hands of tech giants.

For years, major technology companies have leveraged their size and resources to suppress competition and expand control over American lives—shaping what people buy, see, and experience daily. These monopolies prioritize their political agendas over consumer welfare, exerting influence over speech, news, and entertainment.

In Congress, efforts have been made to curb tech giants’ anticompetitive practices. The goal is not to eliminate profit but to prevent the suppression of competitors, manipulation of markets, and the weaponization of user data. Such actions hinder innovation, limit consumer choice, and distort information ecosystems.

Examples include platforms censoring conservative voices ahead of elections and manipulating content to promote specific ideologies. Amazon, for instance, removed documentaries on Clarence Thomas and Michael Brown, reflecting a broader pattern of ideological filtering. With 200 million subscribers, Amazon’s potential acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery—which includes HBO Max, CNN, and live sports rights—would further solidify its dominance, making it nearly 50% larger than its nearest rival.

Amazon’s market power has drawn scrutiny from both political sides. During Trump’s administration, the company was monitored, and in 2023, 17 state attorneys general joined the FTC in suing Amazon for monopolistic practices. A $2.5 billion settlement followed over deceptive Prime membership tactics. Yet, Amazon’s bid for Warner Bros. Discovery will face regulatory scrutiny.

Big Tech’s history suggests that acquisitions are strategic moves to eliminate competition and expand influence. The Trump administration has shown willingness to use antitrust laws against entities that suppress ideas, a criterion met by tech giants. Analysts warn that Apple, Amazon, Comcast, Netflix, and Google could face friction from regulators.

Americans should hope authorities carefully review any deals that threaten free speech and market diversity. Warner Bros. Discovery already has an offer to remain independent, offering a counterbalance to tech dominance. While Big Tech may resist, this moment presents an opportunity for regulators to address monopolistic trends in the entertainment industry.