While high-stakes mega mergers like Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Waner Bros. are still under review by federal regulators, industry lobbyists say not to underestimate the power and influence of Congress. Lawmakers may not be able to approve these deals but they can put pressure on the executive branch, hold hearings, and shape the messaging and public narrative around mergers facing scrutiny.
McCarter & English partner and former DOJ antitrust attorney Robin Crauthers told Bloomberg Law News that while congressional oversight responsibilities are limited when it comes to agencies’ decisions over deals, lawmaker letters or attention can serve as “megaphones to show the public they have concerns. She added that clients navigating mergers now are smart to put their government relations firepower on Capitol Hill. But if they have limited resources, “right now your lobbying money is better spent in front of the executive branch, especially if you can get direct access to the White House inner circle.”