Trump demands Netflix fire former national security advisor Susan Rice from its board
Business Insider
February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Donald Trump has weighed in on the Netflix-Warner Bros. merger, urging the streaming giant to remove former national security advisor Susan Rice from its board. In a Truth Social post, Trump demanded that Netflix "immediately terminate" Rice's role or face consequences, amplifying calls from conservative voices who view her as an undesirable figure in corporate leadership.
Rice, a seasoned diplomat under both Obama and Biden administrations, recently criticized companies aligning too closely with Trump, warning of potential accountability measures if Democrats regain power. Her comments sparked backlash, particularly among Trump supporters. This tension arises amid Netflix's pursuit of a high-stakes merger with Warner Bros. Discovery, which is under antitrust scrutiny.
The merger's approval hinges on Department of Justice review, adding political and legal complexities. While Trump previously distanced himself from the deal, stating he wouldn't interfere but noting concerns about market dominance, his latest demand highlights ongoing tensions.
This clash underscores the intersection of business and politics in high-profile mergers. For businesses, navigating such dynamics is crucial, as they risk becoming entangled in political disputes that could impact their strategic decisions and public image.
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Originally published on Business Insider on 2/22/2026