FTC Removes AI-Related Blog Posts from Lina Khan Era
Key Points
- FTC has redirected or deleted multiple AI‑related blog posts from the Lina Khan era.
- Removed posts include discussions on open‑weight models, consumer AI concerns, and enforcement actions.
- Around 300 AI‑focused posts were eliminated in a March sweep.
- The deletions may conflict with federal record‑keeping laws.
- FTC declined to provide an explanation for the removals.
- Former FTC officials expressed surprise at the agency’s actions.
- The move reflects a broader shift in policy under the Trump administration.
The Federal Trade Commission has deleted a series of blog posts and guidance documents about artificial intelligence that were published while Lina Khan served as chair. The removals include pieces on open‑weight models, consumer concerns about AI, and the agency’s own enforcement actions. Critics say the deletions raise transparency and record‑keeping concerns, while the FTC has declined to comment. The action reflects a broader shift in the agency’s approach under the Trump administration.
Background
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) previously hosted a number of blog posts and guidance documents that addressed emerging issues in artificial intelligence. These posts were authored by staff members, including those working directly for former chair Lina Khan, and covered topics such as open‑weight foundation models, consumer concerns about AI, and the agency’s enforcement activities against deceptive AI schemes.
Posts Removed
In recent months, the FTC redirected or deleted several of these AI‑related entries. A July 2024 post titled “On Open‑Weights Foundation Models” now points to the Office of Technology landing page. An October 2023 article, “Consumers Are Voicing Concerns About AI,” was similarly redirected. A January 2025 post, “AI and the Risk of Consumer Harm,” now returns a “Page not found” error. Additional removals reported in March included roughly 300 posts covering AI, consumer protection, and lawsuits involving major tech firms.
Potential Implications
Observers note that the deletions could conflict with the Federal Records Act and the Open Government Data Act, which require agencies to preserve and make accessible records of administrative, legal, or historical value. The removal of guidance on topics such as deceptive AI chatbots and fraud mitigation raises questions about the FTC’s commitment to transparency and its evolving stance on AI regulation.
Responses
The FTC declined to comment on the removals. Former FTC public affairs director Douglas Farrar expressed surprise, emphasizing the agency’s historic role as a key AI market regulator. Critics suggest the action aligns with a broader shift under the Trump administration, which has advocated for open‑source AI as a means to maintain technological dominance. While many of Khan’s own posts remain online, the recent deletions signal a notable change in the agency’s public communication strategy regarding AI.