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Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

This is uncharted territory for these companies, whose connections within government agencies have little value when it\u2019s the amorphous group led by Musk <\/a>and mostly made up of young engineers calling the shots. Indications suggest that their initiatives, such as meetings with Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian, are beginning to yield results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Google aims to expand its software offerings for government agencies. Many of which continue to depend on Microsoft\u2019s outdated productivity tools like Outlook and Word. To strengthen its position in federal cloud computing, Amazon contends that Microsoft has unfairly sidelined competitors by bundling its cloud services with its software offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is uncharted territory for these companies, whose connections within government agencies have little value when it\u2019s the amorphous group led by Musk <\/a>and mostly made up of young engineers calling the shots. Indications suggest that their initiatives, such as meetings with Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian, are beginning to yield results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Alex Haurek, a Microsoft spokesperson, said in a statement that it\u2019s \u201cconcerning but unsurprising to see certain industry players trying to manipulate decision makers, through shadowy <\/a>front groups, rather than competing transparently on price and quality.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Google aims to expand its software offerings for government agencies. Many of which continue to depend on Microsoft\u2019s outdated productivity tools like Outlook and Word. To strengthen its position in federal cloud computing, Amazon contends that Microsoft has unfairly sidelined competitors by bundling its cloud services with its software offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is uncharted territory for these companies, whose connections within government agencies have little value when it\u2019s the amorphous group led by Musk <\/a>and mostly made up of young engineers calling the shots. Indications suggest that their initiatives, such as meetings with Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian, are beginning to yield results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

The trade associations are contacting members of the congressional \u201cDOGE caucus,\u201d which consists of lawmakers backing Musk\u2019s initiatives, and DOGE representatives in several federal agencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Haurek, a Microsoft spokesperson, said in a statement that it\u2019s \u201cconcerning but unsurprising to see certain industry players trying to manipulate decision makers, through shadowy <\/a>front groups, rather than competing transparently on price and quality.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Google aims to expand its software offerings for government agencies. Many of which continue to depend on Microsoft\u2019s outdated productivity tools like Outlook and Word. To strengthen its position in federal cloud computing, Amazon contends that Microsoft has unfairly sidelined competitors by bundling its cloud services with its software offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is uncharted territory for these companies, whose connections within government agencies have little value when it\u2019s the amorphous group led by Musk <\/a>and mostly made up of young engineers calling the shots. Indications suggest that their initiatives, such as meetings with Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian, are beginning to yield results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Amazon and Google are actively promoting this message through technology trade groups such as NetChoice, expanding their lobbying efforts and attributing the blame to Microsoft\u2019s extensive practices contracts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The trade associations are contacting members of the congressional \u201cDOGE caucus,\u201d which consists of lawmakers backing Musk\u2019s initiatives, and DOGE representatives in several federal agencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Haurek, a Microsoft spokesperson, said in a statement that it\u2019s \u201cconcerning but unsurprising to see certain industry players trying to manipulate decision makers, through shadowy <\/a>front groups, rather than competing transparently on price and quality.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Google aims to expand its software offerings for government agencies. Many of which continue to depend on Microsoft\u2019s outdated productivity tools like Outlook and Word. To strengthen its position in federal cloud computing, Amazon contends that Microsoft has unfairly sidelined competitors by bundling its cloud services with its software offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is uncharted territory for these companies, whose connections within government agencies have little value when it\u2019s the amorphous group led by Musk <\/a>and mostly made up of young engineers calling the shots. Indications suggest that their initiatives, such as meetings with Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian, are beginning to yield results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

Alphabet, Google, and Amazon have discovered a way to benefit from the tumultuous landscape of Elon Musk\u2019s government efficiency department, according to Bloomberg. The companies\u2019 lobbyists in Washington witness their greatest chance to attain a long-sought goal: breaking Microsoft\u2019s longstanding hold on the multi-billion-dollar government software market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Amazon and Google are actively promoting this message through technology trade groups such as NetChoice, expanding their lobbying efforts and attributing the blame to Microsoft\u2019s extensive practices contracts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The trade associations are contacting members of the congressional \u201cDOGE caucus,\u201d which consists of lawmakers backing Musk\u2019s initiatives, and DOGE representatives in several federal agencies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alex Haurek, a Microsoft spokesperson, said in a statement that it\u2019s \u201cconcerning but unsurprising to see certain industry players trying to manipulate decision makers, through shadowy <\/a>front groups, rather than competing transparently on price and quality.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Google aims to expand its software offerings for government agencies. Many of which continue to depend on Microsoft\u2019s outdated productivity tools like Outlook and Word. To strengthen its position in federal cloud computing, Amazon contends that Microsoft has unfairly sidelined competitors by bundling its cloud services with its software offerings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is uncharted territory for these companies, whose connections within government agencies have little value when it\u2019s the amorphous group led by Musk <\/a>and mostly made up of young engineers calling the shots. Indications suggest that their initiatives, such as meetings with Acting GSA Administrator Stephen Ehikian, are beginning to yield results.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 26, federal chief information officer Greg Barbaccia, previously an executive at Peter Thiel\u2019s Palantir, urged all federal agencies to compile a list of their licenses for the five largest software vendors, a list that Microsoft tops. Barbaccia described it as an effort to \u201cstop wasteful spending.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Congress is also undertaking a similar effort. Senator Joni Ernst, a Republican from Iowa and founder of the DOGE Caucus, serves as the lead co-sponsor for a piece of legislation that would direct federal agencies to streamline their software licenses and embrace new enterprise license agreements. Ernst, who mentioned in November that her initiative could potentially save around \u20ac680 million each year, did not reply to a request for comment. The House presented its version of the bill in late March.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a letter to the DOGE in March, NetChoice- a group that includes Amazon and Google- stressed the need to address Microsoft\u2019s purported \u201cmonopoly\u201d in government software, asserting that it leads to increased prices and poor cybersecurity outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Competing with Microsoft, especially alongside Musk\u2019s team of Silicon Valley engineers, highlights its recent performance in cybersecurity. In 2023, hackers linked to the Chinese <\/a>government breached the company\u2019s cloud environment, affecting tens of thousands of individual emails from the US government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A report from a government-appointed cyber advisory board in April 2024 criticized Microsoft sharply for the hack. Notably, victims of the breach included then-commerce secretary Gina Raimondo and officials from the State Department. Their emails were accessed right before a meeting between then-US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Chinese President Xi Jinping<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Microsoft's competitors saw the exposure as an irresistible opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

NetChoice and various tech organizations have aligned their outreach with DOGE\u2019s priorities, suggesting anti-Microsoft actions that aim to \u201csave taxpayers billions next year.\u201d Amazon and Google assert that Microsoft unfairly confines the government to lengthy, disadvantageous contracts, which could exclude billions in contracts from its rivals.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Google & Amazon lobbies DOGE to challenge Microsoft on US federal contracts","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"google-amazon-lobbies-doge-to-challenge-microsoft-on-us-federal-contracts","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 20:57:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7487","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7482,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:11","post_content":"\n

U.S. automakers Ford Motor Co., Chrysler parent Stellantis NV and General Motors Co. are lobbying <\/a>the Trump administration to exempt certain low-cost car parts from the planned tariffs<\/a>. Executives have consulted with the White House and the office of the U.S. Trade Representative to examine the exclusion, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

President Donald Trump\u2019s tariffs, designed to strengthen the American auto industry, are likely to impact U.S. car manufacturers who have increasingly sourced components from low-cost countries for their modern vehicles. The administration intends to impose taxes on auto components in addition to the upcoming 25% tariffs on fully assembled vehicles, scheduled to begin in April 3.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Detroit automakers have accepted that they are prepared to pay tariffs on finished vehicles and major parts such as engines and transmissions. However, company representatives have informed the administration that tariffs on parts would result in cost increases totaling billions of dollars, leading to layoffs and profit warnings that would run counter to Trump\u2019s goal<\/a> of building up the industry, one of the people said. On March 31, Trump refrained from commenting on whether the administration would exempt certain car parts from the tariffs. He noted that he had already offered automakers \u201ca break\u201d by delaying the tariffs for a month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

With the tariff deadline nearing, automakers have recently dispatched their senior executives to Washington to engage in<\/a> recent days to lobby directly with the administration, as reported by sources.\u00a0 On March 31, Trump said that he held negotiations with Stellantis Chairman John Elkann. Ford Executive Chair Bill Ford, great-grandson of architect Henry Ford, held a meeting last week with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Chief Financial Officer Paul Jacobson, GM CEO Mary Barra and other executives have been conferring with government officials since the president announced the tariffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Trump's executive order, 25% tariffs on fully built cars would begin April 3, but levies on major parts like engines, Transmissions and electrical systems are set to start on May 3. Additionally, the president intends to announce reciprocal tariffs affecting several countries on April 2. It\u2019s uncertain if those milestones serve as deadlines for reaching an agreement on auto parts. The automakers believe there's an opportunity to obtain tariff relief on parts since that part of Trump\u2019s executive order was finalized late during the drafting process on March 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since that time, executives and their lobbyists have been striving to inform the administration about the economic intricacies of the global auto parts network production. For instance, inexpensive commodity items such as video screens are primarily produced abroad, where labor costs are lower. If every auto part manufactured overseas faced import taxes, the U.S. market would have hardly any tariff-free cars available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

To gain Trump's favor, automotive representatives are highlighting their support for his objectives of increasing automobile production within the U.S. and boosting America\u2019s manufacturing sector. They have committed to developing strategies to achieve this, but their immediate focus is obtaining a reduction in parts costs first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n","post_title":"US automakers lobby Trump to exempt car parts from tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"us-automakers-lobby-trump-to-exempt-car-parts-from-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:54:13","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7482","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7479,"post_author":"8","post_date":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-05 15:39:57","post_content":"\n

The chief executive of Meta, tech giant Mark Zuckerberg<\/a>, has lobbied President Trump and his ministers to resolve a federal antitrust lawsuit against his firm scheduled for trial on April 14, according to sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg has traveled multiple times to the White House and Mar-a-Lago to address this issue and others, according to sources. His latest visit to the White House was Wednesday morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2020, during Mr. Trump\u2019s first term, the Federal Trade Commission filed a lawsuit against Meta. It is alleged that the company hindered competition by acquiring emerging start-ups like Instagram and WhatsApp. Thereby preventing them from evolving into fully developed businesses. Meta might settle the lawsuit, but it remains uncertain if Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s actions have prompted the Trump administration to contemplate a settlement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Andy Stone, a Meta spokesperson and owner of Facebook, stated that the company \u201cfrequently engages with policymakers to address issues related to competitiveness, national security, and economic growth.\u201d Earlier reports<\/a> from The Wall Street Journal provided details on these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In its complaint, the F.T.C. asserted that Meta broke antitrust law by buying young competitors and robbing consumers of other social media sites. The F.T.C. contended that Meta's 2012 acquisition of the photo-sharing platform Instagram for $1 billion and its 2014 acquisition of the messaging platform WhatsApp for $19 billion must not have been permitted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The company aimed to \u201cbuy or bury innovators that posed a threat to outcompete Facebook in the emerging mobile landscape,\u201d the F.T.C. stated in its complaint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta has refuted claims that it acquired Instagram and WhatsApp to stifle competition. It emphasises its significant investments in innovation for these apps. Additionally, Meta stated that it still encounters strong competition from rivals such as TikTok, YouTube, Snap, and iMessage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The acquisitions of Instagram and WhatsApp turned out to be insightful decisions. Instagram now plays a vital role in Meta\u2019s operations, contributing billions in yearly revenue. Meanwhile, WhatsApp has grown fourfold to reach two billion users and has begun to generate substantial revenue for Meta. A federal judge dismissed the antitrust lawsuit in 2021. However, it was quickly reintroduced after the F.T.C. provided additional evidence and analysis to bolster its assertions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now a trial is set to start in less than two weeks. The trial will likely involve testimony from Meta's high-profile executives. It includes Mr. Zuckerberg, Sheryl Sandberg, former chief operating officer, and Kevin Systrom, co-founder of Instagram.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Meta executives have been preparing diligently for the trial for months in consultation with external counsel in case they are subpoenaed to testify, sources said.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mr. Zuckerberg\u2019s visits to the White House aim to strengthen Meta\u2019s ties with the government. It is particularly aimed at Mr. Trump, following previous conflicts. In December, Meta revealed a $1 million donation to Mr. Trump\u2019s inaugural fund. Additionally, Mr. Zuckerberg elevated Joel Kaplan, a long-serving Republican executive at Meta, to lead the company\u2019s global public policy efforts and enhance connections with the Trump administration.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Mark Zuckerberg lobbies Trump over upcoming Meta antitrust trial","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"mark-zuckerberg-lobbies-trump-over-upcoming-meta-antitrust-trial","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-07 15:40:35","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7479","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7474,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_date_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:20","post_content":"\n

Drugmakers, pharmaceutical makers are reportedly lobbying U.S. President Donald Trump<\/a> to reduce tariffs on imported pharmaceutical products in an effort to ease the sting from the charges and to give them time to shift manufacturing, Reuters revealed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump plans to reveal a large tariff initiative. He stated that the upcoming reciprocal tariffs <\/a>will apply to all countries, rather than just a select group of 10 to 15 with the highest trade deficits. He has indicated that he will soon impose tariffs on the pharmaceutical industry, which has previously been spared from past trade conflicts, following his actions against other sectors. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Four sources, who requested anonymity due to the confidential nature of discussions between the administration and the industry, shared their understanding that Trump will not provide details about any pharmaceutical tariffs on Wednesday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the major multinational pharmaceutical companies anticipate that U.S. tariffs on medical products are unavoidable. They aim for a gradual increase to the threatened 25% tariff rather than having it applied from the start. \"The notion of a gradual tariff increase, a kind of tiered approach, is certainly being discussed within the pharmaceutical industry,\" one source mentioned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A study examining the potential application of industry-specific tariffs was mentioned by three of the four sources, along with an additional source knowledgeable about the issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Large drugmakers possess global manufacturing capabilities, primarily in the U.S., Europe<\/a>, and Asia, and relocating more production to the U.S. represents a significant investment of resources. The industry trade group PhRMA has stated that establishing a new production facility in the U.S. can take 5 to 10 years and cost $2 billion, partly due to regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During meetings in February and March, PhRMA urged the U.S. administration to consider implementing a staggered tariff rate increase over several years, allowing companies adequate time to adjust, according to one of the four sources.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Though the situation is still evolving, the industry remains optimistic that any preliminary tariff announcements concerning the sector will be lower than the 25% threatened by Trump, according to the same source.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It seems there is increasing recognition within the Trump administration that relocating drug manufacturing to the U.S. from overseas is not a swift process. This has sparked optimism among certain industry members that the president could contemplate a gradual increase of tariffs to 25%, another source indicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Pharmaceutical companies contend that tariffs may heighten the risk of drug shortages and limit patient access. Nonetheless, Trump advocates for these fees, asserting that the U.S. must enhance domestic drug production to reduce dependence on foreign medicine supplies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A representative from the industry lobby expressed optimism that adherence to U.S. regulations on policymaking, which mandate public comment periods for federal laws, might delay the introduction of the new fees in the pharmaceutical sector.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In recent months, several multinational pharmaceutical companies, including Johnson & Johnson , Eli Lilly, AstraZeneca, and GSK, have announced billions in new investments to boost production of their top-selling drugs for the U.S. market.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This month, several major European pharmaceutical companies announced that certain medicines could be impacted by U.S. tariffs on the EU, as a significant portion of their manufacturing occurs outside the United States.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

An executive from a European drugmaker stated that increasing U.S. production of their medicines, currently made in<\/a> limited quantities, will not be a lengthy process. According to them, establishing new manufacturing lines at current U.S. facilities for medicines now produced overseas for the U.S. market will require a minimum of two years.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Pharmaceutical industry lobbies Trump to ease drug tariffs","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"pharmaceutical-industry-lobbies-trump-to-ease-drug-tariffs","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_modified_gmt":"2025-04-04 16:02:21","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7474","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":7470,"post_author":"7","post_date":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_date_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:30","post_content":"\n

Samsung Electronics has engaged a Republican-affiliated lobbying<\/a> firm to enhance its presence in Washington. This action follows Hyundai Motor Group\u2019s significant $21 billion investment announcement in the U.S., made at the White House on March 24.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As Samsung is the sole South Korean conglomerate able to invest at the same level as Hyundai, industry experts are keeping a close eye on whether Samsung will take similar actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compounding the situation, the subsidies that the previous Biden administration<\/a> guaranteed to Samsung under the CHIPS Act- a U.S. law that President Donald Trump has pledged to overturn- are uncertain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 25, congressional filings reveal that Samsung Electronics engaged<\/a> Continental Strategy, a lobbying firm founded by Carlos Trujillo, who previously served as the U.S. ambassador to the Organization of American States during the first Trump administration. Since Trump's return to the White House, Continental has experienced a surge in business and has recently expanded its office in Washington, D.C.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notably, Katie Wiles, the daughter of White House Chief of Staff Susan Wiles, currently serves as a partner at the firm. She attained this partnership last November, which coincided with her mother\u2019s nomination as Chief of Staff. At that time, Continental stated she would \u201ccreate new opportunities for growth as we capitalize on the momentum from Trump\u2019s decisive victory.\u201d Republican Rep. Byron Donalds supported the decision, asserting, \u201cContinental is fortunate to have her.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung\u2019s lobbying team at Continental features prominent Republican figures such as Alberto Martinez, who was the chief of staff for Senator Marco Rubio; Daniel Gomez, a former aide to Republican Senator Deb Fischer; and Trujillo. The firm will represent Samsung in areas like telecommunications, consumer electronics, semiconductors, supply chain, and trade issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung is constructing semiconductor plants in Taylor, Texas, and additional sites, receiving $4.745 billion in subsidies from the Biden administration last year, which accounts for roughly 12.8% of its total investment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Trump\u2019s persistent demands to repeal the CHIPS Act have sparked worries about Samsung's potential loss of subsidies. Covington & Burling, the D.C. law firm that assisted Samsung with its subsidy application, is now facing Trump\u2019s scrutiny, compounding Samsung\u2019s difficulties. Trump has charged the firm with \u201cweaponizing the judicial process\u201d and has even issued an executive order aimed at reducing its power.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Samsung has allegedly terminated its contract with WestExec Advisors, a consulting firm co-founded in 2017 by prominent Democrats such as former Secretary of State Antony Blinken and former Deputy Defense Secretary Mich\u00e8le Flournoy. WestExec was providing advice to Samsung on regulatory and policy issues. This termination has sparked speculation that Samsung is shifting its lobbying strategy to foster closer relationships with Trump\u2019s inner circle.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Samsung turns to Republican Lobbyists amid CHIPS Act uncertainty","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"samsung-turns-to-republican-lobbyists-amid-chips-act-uncertainty","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_modified_gmt":"2025-03-30 09:55:32","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/dctransparency.com\/?p=7470","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"prev":true,"total_page":13},"paged":1,"column_class":"jeg_col_2o3","class":"epic_block_3"};

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