Senate Democrats Demand Answers From Paramount Skydance CEO About Dealings With Trump

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A group of eight Democratic U.S. senators have sent a letter to David Ellison, chairman and CEO of Paramount Skydance, demanding answers about how his company has interacted with former President Trump and the White House in its hostile takeover bid of Warner Bros. Discovery. The senators accused Ellison of a 'pattern of evasion' and asked him to preserve all records related to the proposed Paramount-Warner Bros. Discovery transaction.

Why it matters

The senators' letter raises concerns about potential political interference in the merger review process, as well as questions about whether Ellison or Paramount have made any donations or had communications with Trump or his associates that could influence the deal's approval. The outcome of this merger could have significant implications for the media and entertainment industry.

The details

The letter was sent by Sen. Cory Booker, Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, Minority Whip Dick Durbin, and Sens. Amy Klobuchar, Elizabeth Warren, Richard Blumenthal, Mazie Hirono and Peter Welch. It comes after Ellison previously declined an invitation to testify before the Senate Judiciary Committee Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy and Consumer Rights. The senators said Ellison's written response to their previous request 'failed to address' their concerns about political interference. They are now demanding Ellison answer a list of questions and preserve all relevant records by February 26.

• On Tuesday, Warner Bros. Discovery said it will engage in discussions with Paramount for a seven-day window to 'seek clarity' on its 'best and final offer' in its hostile takeover effort.
• That negotiating period, which Netflix granted approval for, ends on February 23.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.