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Two Senior DOJ Antitrust Officials Dismissed

By  |  July 29, 2025

Two high-ranking officials in the Department of Justice’s antitrust division were removed from their positions this week, in a move that underscores mounting internal discord within the agency, according to CBS News.

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    Roger Alford and Bill Rinner, both serving as senior deputies to Assistant Attorney General Gail Slater, were terminated on Monday. Alford held the position of principal deputy assistant attorney general, while Rinner was the deputy assistant attorney general overseeing merger enforcement. Both officials had served in the division during President Donald Trump’s first term.

    The precise reasons for the dismissals remain undisclosed. However, CBS News reports that sources familiar with the situation cited insubordination as a factor behind the firings. Alford and Rinner had reportedly been placed on administrative leave in the week leading up to their removal.

    Per CBS News, the decision to remove the two officials follows ongoing internal tension within the DOJ’s antitrust unit. Earlier this month, friction among team members had sparked private deliberations within the Trump administration on whether to push out certain staff members or attempt to reconcile growing differences.

    The antitrust division, tasked with enforcing laws that prevent monopolistic practices and promote competitive markets, has been at the center of high-profile litigation in recent months. Despite her support from some senior administration figures, Slater has faced criticism from both internal colleagues and industry stakeholders, CBS News previously reported.

    Related: DOJ Probes NewYork-Presbyterian for Potential Market-Blocking Agreements

    Concerns have also been raised regarding the division’s handling of investigations into companies such as T-Mobile and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. Some officials within the administration have expressed frustration over what they see as a protracted and politically fraught decision-making process when resolving merger-related issues. According to CBS News, three sources described a dynamic where compromises on merger deals have required significant internal negotiation.

    While Slater has not adopted a hardline stance against all mergers, her approach has nonetheless drawn scrutiny from both conservative and progressive quarters. Still, she remains in her post and retains backing from several senior figures in the Trump administration, CBS News noted.

    The Justice Department’s antitrust division, alongside the Federal Trade Commission, plays a crucial role in ensuring that U.S. markets remain fair and competitive.

    Source: CBS News