Google executive counters DOJ’s proposals, warns of potential harm to US economy and tech leadership

Investing.com -- Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL)’s Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Lee-Anne Mulholland, has voiced concerns over the proposals put forth by the US Department of Justice (DOJ) in relation to the 2020 search distribution lawsuit. Mulholland argues that these proposals are not only unnecessary but could also negatively impact America’s consumers, economy, and technological leadership.

Opening arguments began today in the U.S. Justice Department’s antitrust case against Google, where prosecutors argue the company should be forced to divest Chrome, unbundle Android, and make sweeping structural changes.

In a statement made on April 20, 2025, Mulholland highlighted several points of contention with the DOJ’s proposals. She emphasized that Google is used by choice, not by force, and the DOJ’s proposal to make browsers and phones default to other search services would restrict user access to Google.

Mulholland further argued that preventing Google from competing for search distribution rights could result in raised prices and slowed innovation. She pointed out that device makers and web browsers, such as Mozilla’s Firefox, rely on revenue from search distribution, and removing this revenue could increase the cost of mobile phones and hinder web browser functionality.

Privacy and security concerns were also raised by Mulholland. She warned that the DOJ’s proposal could force Google to share sensitive and private search queries with unknown companies, potentially compromising user privacy and security.

Another point of concern for Mulholland was the potential impact on Google’s AI development. She stated that the DOJ’s proposal could restrict how Google develops AI and could result in a government-appointed committee regulating Google’s product design and development, potentially stifling American innovation.

Finally, Mulholland addressed the DOJ’s proposal to separate Chrome and Android from Google, stating that this could disrupt the platforms, negatively affect businesses built on them, and undermine security. She emphasized that Google’s world-class security protections are integral to keeping people safe online, and separating Chrome and Android could introduce cybersecurity risks and increase device costs.

Mulholland concluded by stating that Google disagrees with the Court’s decision in the case and plans to appeal. The final decision on the remedies to address the liability decision is yet to be made by the Court.

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