President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Andrew Ferguson to lead the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). A vocal advocate of “America First,” Ferguson is one of two Senate-confirmed Republican FTC commissioners. He is well-known for his strong stance on consumer protection, antitrust issues, and a pro-innovation approach that also emphasizes the protection of free speech.
This appointment is particularly significant for industries heavily regulated by the FTC, including auto dealerships, as the commission plays a pivotal role in shaping the regulations controlling dealerships’ operations.
The FTC’s oversight of advertising, finance, and insurance products directly impacts dealership practices. The agency’s involvement in enforcing consumer protection and antitrust laws ensures that auto dealerships comply with regulations designed to safeguard both consumers and the market.
Under the leadership of Chair Lina Khan, the FTC introduced the “Combating Auto Scams Rule” (CARS) in December 2023. This regulation focuses on dealership advertising and finance practices, aiming to protect consumers from deceptive practices.
Ferguson, known for his advocacy against Big Tech censorship, is committed to enforcing antitrust laws, particularly when it comes to social media platforms and their potential collaboration to suppress certain viewpoints or limit business with specific platforms. His focus on protecting free speech could have broader implications, even for industries like auto dealerships, where online advertising and partnerships with tech platforms are increasingly common. As Ferguson takes the reins of the FTC, his leadership is sure to influence future regulations impacting dealerships and their interactions with tech companies.
