Shortly after Jonathan Kanter assumed leadership of the Justice Department’s antitrust division in November 2021, the agency successfully secured an additional $50 million to investigate monopolies, dismantle criminal cartels, and prevent mergers. In celebration, Mr. Kanter placed a prop of a large check outside his office with the memo line reading “Break ‘Em Up.”
Mr. Kanter, aged 50, has been a strong advocate for breaking up corporate power in America, leading a significant effort to combat monopolistic practices. This effort was highlighted when the Justice Department filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple. The lawsuit, spanning 88 pages, accused Apple of violating antitrust laws by implementing practices that discouraged customers from switching to rival devices.
In addition to the lawsuit against Apple, the Justice Department has also taken legal action against Google for maintaining illegal monopolies. Mr. Kanter’s team has actively opposed various corporate mergers, including the attempt by JetBlue Airways to acquire Spirit Airlines.
Mr. Kanter emphasized the importance of ensuring that antitrust laws benefit workers, consumers, entrepreneurs, and democratic values. This commitment was underscored at a news conference announcing the Apple lawsuit, where Mr. Kanter likened the action to historic challenges against Standard Oil, AT&T, and Microsoft.
Working alongside Lina Khan, chair of the Federal Trade Commission, Mr. Kanter has targeted four of the largest tech companies in a sweeping effort to curb industry power, with additional lawsuits filed against Meta and Amazon. However, the duo faces uncertainty due to the outcome of the November election, which could potentially change the leadership.
A Queens, N.Y. native, Mr. Kanter has risen through the ranks over the past two decades, beginning his career at the F.T.C. and later joining prestigious law firms. His advocacy for antitrust enforcement aligns with his belief in equal opportunities and the American dream.
Critics have questioned Mr. Kanter’s aggressive approach to antitrust enforcement, with some suggesting that his efforts may have negative economic consequences. Despite this, Mr. Kanter remains steadfast in his mission to adapt antitrust enforcement to address the realities of the modern economy.
Supported by a dedicated team, Mr. Kanter continues to pursue landmark cases against tech giants, with the goal of reshaping corporate power dynamics in the digital age.