FTC accused of slack antitrust policy

[Khephra]

FTC accused of slack antitrust policy
Sunday, August 15, 2004
BY JEFF KOSSEFF

NEWHOUSE NEWS SERVICE

Between the Capitol and the White House sits the Federal Trade Commission, a block of government bureaucracy unnoticed by most Pennsylvania Avenue tourists.

The FTC, charged with protecting consumers and preserving competitive balance in industries, is noticed mostly by a handful of business lawyers attempting to gain approval for mergers.

In recent months, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) released scathing critiques of the FTC's conduct on gas prices. He attempted to block President Bush's nominee to chair the five-member commission, Deborah Majoras, claiming she doesn't have a plan to fight high gas prices.

By allowing oil and gas companies to rapidly merge, close refineries and reduce competition, Wyden argues, the FTC has caused price increases at the pumps.

http://www.nj.com/business/ledger/index.ssf?/base/business-7/109257923574440.xml

[dumpster_baby]

1. we should be grateful for good democrats like wyden

why didn't this guy run for president?