The Justice Department has taken a significant step by filing a statement of interest in the case of Children’s Health Defense et al. v. Washington Post et al., which is currently before the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. This lawsuit is spearheaded by plaintiffs who claim they were deplatformed for sharing independent news and opinions related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The plaintiffs allege that major media organizations, including the Washington Post, BBC, Associated Press, and Reuters, have colluded with large digital platforms to suppress competition from independent voices that challenge mainstream narratives. The Justice Department's statement of interest highlights the role of antitrust laws in protecting viewpoint competition within news markets.

Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Antitrust Division stated that when companies misuse their market power to silence independent voices and favor established media, they not only harm competition but also jeopardize the free flow of information that consumers rely on. The Antitrust Division is committed to defending the principle that antitrust laws support free markets, including the marketplace of ideas.

This filing is part of the Antitrust Division's broader strategy to protect competition and consumers by actively participating in federal court cases that may influence the development of antitrust laws. The Division maintains a collection of its statements of interest and amicus briefs on its website, showcasing its commitment to fostering a competitive marketplace.