The Block the Merger coalition statement on Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín’s decision to grant a temporary restraining order (TRO) to block the massive $110 billion merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery following an emergency request filed by a coalition of 12 state attorneys general led by California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta.
"We applaud Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín ruling to grant a temporary restraining order, which pauses Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. from rushing to close their merger before a court can fully evaluate the evidence. This ruling will allow Judge Martínez-Olguín to decide this case on the merits, and we believe the states have brought a strong suit that will ultimately block this anti-competitive, anti-consumer mega-deal. We have always said this harmful merger must be scrutinized rather than blindly greenlit by Trump loyalists. Today’s decision represents a critical step in the right direction.
“A Paramount-Warner Bros. consolidation would cause irreparable harm to our film and television entertainment industry, our independent press, and our freedom of speech both here and abroad. We thank the courageous 12 state attorneys general for bringing this suit and look forward to seeing the Ellisons defend this dangerous merger in court.”