Political Ramifications 2

      Microsoft has found allies in both the Senate and House Majority Leaders (Trent Lott and Dick Armey respectively), and even Democratic New Jersey Senator Robert Toracelli. The Republicans have recently told Al Gore they wish to make the case an issue in the upcoming presidential election. Microsoft has plenty of reason to look forward to the upcoming elections and buy time with appeals until then. If the pro-business Republicans take the Whitehouse, the DOJ will be at their command and more likely to settle on friendlier terms.

    At the same time, trust busting itself may get a great boost from Jackson's ruling. Such a high profile case draws a lot of attention to antitrust law, especially when the DOJ wins. It is likely that a string of antitrust action will come from the momentum of this case. Also, the DOJ will probably be on the prowl for more high profile technology targets for future trials.

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