Google is mounting a defense against the Justice Department’s proposed antitrust remedies, arguing that breaking up the company could compromise national security, according to people familiar with the matter.
In discussions with the Trump administration, Google representatives have urged officials to reconsider a plan that would force the tech giant to sell its Chrome browser and restructure its business practices. The company contends that such drastic measures could undermine America’s technological leadership and economic interests.
The Justice Department’s proposal, originally advanced during the Biden administration, seeks sweeping changes to Google’s operations. These include divesting Chrome, ending exclusivity payments to companies like Apple, and restricting investments in artificial intelligence companies. Bloomberg previously reported potential complications with Google’s AI investments, particularly regarding companies like Anthropic.
Google found guilty of illegal monopoly in Search and advertisement
A federal judge’s landmark ruling last August found Google guilty of illegally monopolizing search and search advertising markets. The current remedy phase could result in unprecedented transformations of the tech landscape, marking the first major corporate breakup attempt since the Microsoft case two decades ago.
Google’s national security argument aligns with recent White House rhetoric. President Trump and Vice President JD Vance have consistently pushed back against aggressive tech regulation, particularly from international bodies like the European Union.
The company’s strategy includes highlighting its critical role in cybersecurity and technological innovation. Google spokesperson Peter Schottenfels stated that the proposed changes would “harm the American economy and national security.”
As both sides prepare for April hearings, key executives including CEO Sundar Pichai have already been deposed. The Justice Department, currently led by Acting Assistant Attorney General Omeed Assefi, is set to file its final proposal by week’s end.