Trump warns Netflix of ‘consequences’ unless it pulls top Democrat from board

The Guardian World

by Joanna Partridge

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Netflix, demanding the removal of Democratic foreign policy expert Susan Rice from its board of directors or face potential consequences. This demand comes amid Netflix's ongoing efforts to acquire Warner Bros Discovery (WBD), a high-stakes corporate battle in the streaming industry. Trump, who made the comments on his Truth Social platform, criticized Rice as a "political hack" and claimed she lacks both talent and skills. The situation highlights the intersection of politics and business, with Trump leveraging his influence to weigh in on a major media merger. Susan Rice, a seasoned diplomat, served as national security advisor under Barack Obama and as UN ambassador and White House advisor under Joe Biden. Her presence on Netflix's board has drawn significant attention, especially given her ties to Democratic leadership. Trump's remarks reflect a broader pattern of his vocal opposition to figures he perceives as aligned with the political left. By targeting Rice, Trump appears to be signaling disapproval of Netflix's perceived liberal leanings and its connections to prominent Democrats. This situation underscores the growing influence of politics in corporate decision-making, particularly in the media sector. Trump's intervention raises questions about the potential consequences for businesses that align with political figures or parties he opposes. His warning also adds another layer to the already complex landscape of the streaming wars, where financial and ideological stakes are high. The outcome could set a precedent for how politics influences corporate strategy and board appointments in the future. The implications extend beyond individual figures like Rice; they touch on issues of corporate accountability, political influence, and the role of media giants in shaping public perception. As Netflix navigates this merger and potential fallout with Trump, the broader world will watch to

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Originally published on The Guardian World on 2/22/2026