A competitive marketplace is the cornerstone of our economy — consumers rely on it to keep prices down and choices up. When several vendors are vying for a piece of a consumer’s paycheck, they are forced to bring their best offerings or face the consequences. Laws are on the books to foster a competitive market, but they must be enforced, and more changes are needed.

Media and communications consolidation threatens democracy, diversity, and can lead directly to higher prices to consumers. Horizontal deals (for example, cable, wireless, or media companies merging with each other) and vertical deals (for example, a cable company buying a programming network) can each raise concerns. Collusive deals between companies can, as well. Where appropriate, Public Knowledge believes harmful deals should be blocked, or at least remedied with enforceable conditions designed to protect the public interest.

What PK Is Doing…

Public Knowledge is working to ensure a fair, affordable, and competitive media marketplace for consumers.

Learn more on our related page, “Antitrust Enforcement Past and Present: Times Have Changed, But the Need for Strong Antitrust Hasn’t,” and on our interactive timeline of our work on mergers.