The Department of Justice under Trump's administration has launched a comprehensive investigation into Netflix’s business practices and its proposed $82.7 billion merger with Warner Brothers. The official stance claims concern over potential media consolidation and monopoly risks. However, critics argue that this move is less about antitrust laws and more about manipulating the situation to benefit Larry Ellison, who is also vying for Warner Brothers.

The surface reasoning provided by the DOJ focuses on the impact of Netflix’s merger potentially strengthening its market dominance or leading to a future monopoly. U.S. laws grant the authority to oppose mergers that could result in such market conditions. However, the underlying motives appear aligned with aiding Larry Ellison, who has made unsuccessful bids to acquire Warner Brothers through his Paramount/Skydance venture.

Reports from The Wall Street Journal and Reuters have discussed the DOJ's simultaneous investigation into Ellison’s bid, which Warner’s board has repeatedly rejected due to concerns over financing and ties to Saudi money. Despite this, the right-wing media, allegedly influenced by Trump, has been actively campaigning against the Netflix merger, employing tactics including unsupported claims and cultural criticisms to sway public opinion and regulatory outcomes.

The controversy extends beyond mere corporate acquisition battles. It taps into a broader strategy by certain political factions to control media narratives. Critics argue that allowing Ellison to take over entities like CNN and HBO would lead to a significant shift in media control, echoing state-controlled media models seen in other nations.

The ongoing media and regulatory saga underscores the complexities and potential manipulations in major corporate mergers. While the DOJ's investigation is officially grounded in antitrust scrutiny, the surrounding circumstances suggest a blend of political maneuvering and corporate warfare, aiming at reshaping American media's future landscape.