Attorney General Merrick B. Garland recently delivered remarks at the 2024 John Sherman Award presentation, honoring Bill Baer for his contributions to antitrust law. Garland highlighted Baer's extensive career and achievements in the field.
Garland recounted their early days together at Arnold & Porter, where they worked alongside Bob Pitofsky, a previous Sherman Award winner. He noted Baer's unique position as the only person to have led antitrust enforcement at both the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
"Global Competition Review has twice named Bill the best competition lawyer in the world," Garland stated, acknowledging Baer's recognition by various organizations for his work in antitrust law.
Garland praised Baer's role in blocking significant mergers that could have reduced market competition, such as InBev-Modelo and Chicken of the Sea-Bumble Bee. He also mentioned Baer's involvement in altering airline industry dynamics through a settlement with US Airways and American Airlines.
Reflecting on Baer's influence, Garland said, "Through his work, Bill has shown a generation of Justice Department attorneys — and so many others — why taking up these cases is so important."
Baer advocated for robust antitrust enforcement free from political interference and emphasized preventing consolidation in tech markets. His legacy includes mentoring future leaders within the DOJ's Antitrust Division.
In addition to professional accolades, Garland acknowledged Baer's personal impact on colleagues: "Bill was beloved by the lawyers and staff of the Antitrust Division because he got to know them personally."
Concluding his remarks, Garland celebrated Baer's family life, noting his pride in his wife Nancy, sons Michael and Andrew, and granddaughters Eliza and Grace.
"So, Bill, this honor is so well deserved," Garland concluded. "I join your many friends and family in raising a pint to you."