Observers are watching closely as Netflix navigates corporate strategy, leadership decisions, and external pressures, highlighting the influence of political figures on major business transactions. In between this, Netflix has found itself at the center of scrutiny after former UN ambassador Susan Rice drew attention following a single post on X. Her involvement has become a focal point in discussions surrounding an $83 billion deal. 

Amid these negotiations, former President Donald Trump has publicly called on Netflix to remove Rice from her role, framing his statement as an ultimatum related to the ongoing deal.

Donald Trump has publicly demanded that Netflix remove Susan Rice or face consequences.

“Netflix should fire r-----, Trump Deranged Susan Rice, IMMEDIATELY, or pay the consequences,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. His statements put the $83 billion merger intoa stage for political theater and power posturing.

Trump’s outrage on Truth Social erupted after Susan Rice’s podcast comments suggested that a winning Democratic administration could hold companies accountable for past shortcuts, firings, or regulatory slips. Her statement sent shockwaves through Netflix’s board, sparking conversations and Trump's reaction.

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Amidst this chaos, regulators circle like hawks, hinting that Netflix’s billion-dollar ambitions may face more than just boardroom drama.

Since December 2025, Donald Trump has openly questioned Netflix’s $83 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery. Antitrust concerns surged as regulators examined whether the Netflix-HBO Max merger could crush competition. Critics warn that the deal risks limiting consumer choice and giving Netflix unprecedented control over Hollywood content. 

Tensions escalated when Paramount Skydance countered with a $108 billion bid, turning the acquisition into a competitive bidding process. Executives have expressed concerns that Netflix’s approach to theatrical releases could affect the broader creative ecosystem. And political statements from former President Donald Trump, along with comments from Susan Rice on her podcast, have added nothing but a layer of extra scrutiny.

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What are your thoughts on President Trump's warning? Let us know in the comments.