FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson laid out a bold 2025 plan before Congress, defending agency cuts while touting big consumer wins and a sharper fight against fraud.
At a Glance
- Chairman Ferguson testified about FTC’s fiscal plans and consumer strategies.
- The agency returned over $333 million to consumers in 2024.
- The FTC aligns with goals to reduce government size.
- Ferguson emphasized the need for adequate FTC staffing.
Leaner Government, Stronger Protections
On May 15, 2025, FTC Chairman Andrew N. Ferguson addressed the House Appropriations Committee, outlining the commission’s roadmap for fiscal years 2025 and 2026. Speaking in Room 2362-B of the Rayburn House Office Building, Ferguson emphasized a streamlined approach to regulation that prioritizes both consumer protection and fiscal discipline.
Central to his message was a striking figure: over $333 million returned to consumers in 2024 through FTC enforcement efforts. Ferguson argued this result validates a budget strategy that maximizes impact without inflating government overhead. He described the FTC’s approach as fiscally responsible and aligned with broader federal objectives to reduce spending.
Watch a report: FTC Chair Ferguson Testifies on 2025 Budget.
Balancing Cuts With Capability
Ferguson noted that the commission’s goals match former President Trump’s continuing agenda to shrink the federal workforce. Yet, he cautioned against undermining the FTC’s ability to enforce laws protecting the public from fraud, scams, and unfair market practices. While advocating for efficiency, Ferguson stressed the necessity of maintaining sufficient staffing to uphold the agency’s mandates.
This call was backed by a 3-0 vote from the Commission, reinforcing bipartisan support for a lean yet effective FTC. Core efforts remain focused on battling illegal telemarketing schemes and scams that target seniors, veterans, and economically vulnerable Americans.
Trust Through Competition
On the competition front, Ferguson reiterated the FTC’s commitment to policing anticompetitive conduct, particularly from dominant firms that may stifle innovation or harm consumers. As part of the agency’s dual mission, efforts to preserve market integrity are matched by investments in public education campaigns designed to empower consumers.
He argued that strengthening consumer trust through transparency and engagement is essential in the evolving digital economy. From cracking down on corporate monopolies to helping everyday Americans recognize fraud, the FTC’s role remains crucial even amid tightening budgets.
As lawmakers deliberate on the FTC’s future funding, Ferguson’s testimony offers a clear vision: a nimble agency, tightly focused on delivering maximum value and consumer impact with minimal federal footprint.
