Trump Administration Plans to Have FTC Chair Lead Justice Department's New Anti-Fraud Unit

Odaily According to informed sources, officials in the Trump administration are considering appointing Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Andrew Ferguson to lead a newly established department within the Justice Department responsible for combating nationwide fraud. Ferguson would continue to serve as FTC Chairman. Vice President Vance stated last week that the department would be overseen by the White House and "would have nationwide jurisdiction over fraud issues." Vance also indicated that the Justice Department would create a new Assistant Attorney General position to lead related fraud investigations. This structure would blur the traditional lines between the President and the Justice Department, which currently houses several units specifically dedicated to criminal and civil fraud investigations. The law also explicitly prohibits commissioners from "engaging in any other business, profession, or employment." It is currently unclear whether this provision would affect Ferguson holding the new position concurrently.