Former FTC Chair Lina Khan’s $18,870 Chauffeured Car Expenses Draw Inspector General Scrutiny

July 30, 2025

Former Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan has come under fire following a report from the agency’s Inspector General, which revealed that she spent $18,870 on chauffeured cars during her tenure. The report, released on July 24, 2025, has raised questions about the necessity and justification of these expenses, particularly given Khan’s reputation as a fierce advocate against price-gouging and corporate excess.

The Inspector General’s findings criticized the lack of detailed justification for Khan’s use of chauffeured transportation during out-of-town travel, noting that neither Khan nor her staff provided sufficient reasoning related to safety, security, logistical constraints, or the availability of more cost-effective alternatives. The report stated, “Without the former Chair or her staff providing any detailed justification based around safety/security, logistical constraints or the availability of other transportation options submitted for review, it became difficult to determine whether their actions caused the agency to incur higher costs than necessary.”

Khan, who served as FTC Chair from June 2021 to January 2025, was a prominent figure in antitrust enforcement, known for her aggressive stance against Big Tech and other corporate giants. Her tenure saw significant actions, including a landmark regulation banning non-compete agreements (later struck down by a federal court in August 2024) and the adoption of the “click to cancel” rule for subscription services. However, her leadership also faced criticism, with some detractors labeling her approach as overly academic and disruptive to the FTC’s operations.

The revelation of her chauffeured car expenses has sparked debate, particularly in light of her public image as a champion of consumer welfare. Critics argue that the use of costly transportation contradicts her advocacy for fiscal responsibility, while supporters may contend that such expenses are standard for high-profile government officials with demanding schedules. The Inspector General’s report does not accuse Khan of wrongdoing but highlights the need for greater transparency in justifying such expenditures.

As discussions around government spending and accountability continue, this report adds fuel to ongoing critiques of Khan’s leadership style and decision-making during her time at the FTC. The controversy is likely to be a point of contention as her legacy is evaluated in the wake of her departure from the agency.

For more details, visit Law.com for the full Inspector General report.