CNBC·2026-02-22 16:07Core Viewpoint - The ongoing political discourse surrounding Netflix board member Susan Rice highlights potential corporate accountability issues as Democrats may seek to hold corporations responsible if they regain power in the upcoming midterm elections [2][3]. Group 1: Political Context - President Donald Trump has called for Netflix to dismiss board member Susan Rice, labeling her as a "political hack" and suggesting that her influence is diminished [2]. - Rice has warned that corporations that have aligned with Trump may face repercussions from a Democratic resurgence, indicating a shift in accountability standards [3]. Group 2: Corporate Actions and Acquisitions - Netflix is currently under review by the Department of Justice (DOJ) for its proposed $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, which excludes cable networks like CNN [4]. - Paramount Skydance has initiated a hostile takeover bid for Warner Bros. Discovery, offering $30 per share in cash, indicating competitive tensions in the industry [5]. - The DOJ is investigating whether Netflix's acquisition could harm competition and is examining the company's past acquisitions and their impact on creative talent [5][6]. Group 3: Regulatory Environment - The DOJ's review includes scrutiny of Netflix's negotiation tactics with independent content creators, assessing potential anticompetitive practices [6]. - Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos expressed confidence in securing regulatory approval for the acquisition, framing the deal as beneficial for consumers, innovation, and workers [6].