Trump Threatens Netflix Over Board Member Susan Rice Amid Merger Battle

Post By DJ Longers
February 23, 2026

“Purely a Political Hack”: Trump Threatens Netflix Over Board Member Susan Rice Amid Merger Battle

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a dramatic escalation of his "war on woke corporate culture," President Donald Trump has issued a blistering ultimatum to Netflix: remove board member Susan Rice immediately or face "consequences." The demand, delivered via Truth Social on Saturday, thrusts a personal political grievance into the heart of an $83 billion (approx £62 billion) corporate merger that could reshape the global media landscape.

The President’s intervention comes at a critical juncture for the streaming giant as it seeks federal approval to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD), a deal that would grant Netflix control over legendary assets like HBO and the Warner Bros. film studio.

The Truth Social "Ultimatum"

President Trump’s firestorm was sparked by remarks Rice made last Thursday on the Stay Tuned with Preet podcast. During the interview, Rice a former National Security Advisor and UN Ambassador, warned that corporations "taking a knee to Trump" would face an "accountability agenda" and potential subpoenas if Democrats return to power.

Trump’s response was swift and unfiltered.

“Netflix should fire racist, Trump Deranged Susan Rice, IMMEDIATELY, or pay the consequences,” the President wrote. “She’s got no talent or skills — Purely a political hack! HER POWER IS GONE, AND WILL NEVER BE BACK.”

The President also amplified a call from conservative influencer Laura Loomer, who urged the administration to “kill the Netflix-Warner Bros. merger now,” labeling the combined entity a "streaming monopoly" that would serve as a mouthpiece for the Obamas’ production company, Higher Ground.

Merger Under Fire

The "consequences" hinted at by the President likely center on the Department of Justice (DOJ) and its ongoing antitrust review of the Netflix-WBD acquisition. While Trump stated in early February that he would stay out of the regulatory process, his latest comments suggest a return to an interventionist stance.

The merger is already facing a "hostile" counter-bid from Paramount Skydance, backed by billionaire Larry Ellison, a prominent Trump donor. Paramount has until today 23rd February, to submit a "best and final" offer to disrupt Netflix’s agreed-upon deal.

The "Accountability" Controversy

The friction stems from the perception of Netflix as a "left-leaning" institution. Critics frequently point to:

The Obama Deal: A multi-year production agreement with Barack and Michelle Obama.
Reed Hastings' Donations: Netflix co-founder Reed Hastings recently drew MAGA ire for a $2 million donation to California redistricting efforts.
Susan Rice’s Role: Rice, who rejoined the board in 2023, sits on the company’s nominating and governance committee.

Rice’s podcast comments suggesting that companies should "preserve their documents" for future Democratic investigations—have been characterized by the Trump administration as a threat of "weaponized government."

A Corporate Crossroads

Netflix has yet to issue a formal response to the President’s demand. However, the company is in a precarious position. To finalize the WBD acquisition, it must navigate a DOJ that is increasingly skeptical of "streaming monopolies." If the administration views Rice’s presence on the board as a symbol of partisan hostility, the path to approval could become significantly more arduous.

For now, the streaming world watches as a board seat for a former diplomat becomes the latest flashpoint in the President's ongoing battle with Silicon Valley.