Google CEO Sundar Pichai Reflects on Antitrust Resolution During White House Dinner
Alphabet Inc. CEO Sundar Pichai addressed attendees at a White House dinner on September 4, 2025, expressing relief following a pivotal antitrust ruling that favored Google. The event, attended by tech executives and hosted by President Donald Trump, underscored the intersection of regulatory challenges and emerging technology policy.
Antitrust Case Outcome Bolsters Alphabet’s Market Value
Alphabet experienced a $230 billion increase in market capitalization after U.S. District Judge Amit Mehta ruled against the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) most severe proposed penalties in a long-running antitrust case. The case, initiated by the DOJ in 2020 during Trump’s presidency, had previously established Google’s illegal monopoly in internet search. The recent ruling allowed Alphabet to avoid a breakup, which was seen as a significant victory for the company.
White House Dialogue and AI Policy Acknowledged
During the dinner, President Trump congratulated Pichai and co-founder Sergey Brin on the favorable decision. Pichai responded by thanking the administration for its constructive dialogue throughout the process and noted, “I’m glad it’s over,” eliciting laughter from guests. He also commended the Trump administration’s efforts to advance artificial intelligence, highlighting the “Winning the AI Race: America’s AI Action Plan,” launched in July 2025.
This plan outlines 90 federal policy actions focused on accelerating AI innovation, building infrastructure, and enhancing international leadership in AI diplomacy and security. Notably, the plan includes an executive order discouraging AI models from incorporating ideological frameworks such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Ongoing Legal Challenges and AI Initiatives
Separately, Google is engaged in discussions with legal representatives of former President Trump regarding an ongoing lawsuit alleging unlawful censorship on YouTube. This lawsuit originated after Trump’s social media accounts were suspended following the January 6 Capitol riot.
On the same day, Pichai also participated in the White House AI Education Taskforce event, hosted by First Lady Melania Trump, further emphasizing the administration’s focus on AI education and innovation.
Clarification on Case Prosecution
During the dinner, Trump interjected to note that the DOJ case against Google was prosecuted under the Biden administration, a point Pichai did not dispute. The antitrust proceedings, however, commenced during Trump’s presidency.
