Twelve states, led by California, have filed a lawsuit to block the $111 billion merger between Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery, which was approved by the Trump administration in June. The states argue the deal violates antitrust law by concentrating too much control over theatrical film distribution and basic cable programming, which they say will lead to higher prices and less content for consumers. The lawsuit also raises concerns about the Trump administration's approval process, with reports suggesting Paramount received political favour in exchange for concessions including a settlement over a 60 Minutes segment and promises of changes at CNN.
