Warren Demands FTC Probe into Trump Mobile’s Alleged Deception

When a phone company takes deposits but ships nothing—and edits a Samsung render to pass it off as its own—does the FTC stay neutral, or does power politics take over?

Eleven Democratic lawmakers, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, have demanded the Federal Trade Commission investigate Trump Mobile for alleged false advertising and deceptive practices.

The T1 Phone, which has delayed deliveries for six months while collecting $100 deposits, is at the center of the inquiry. The Verge reported that the company’s social media ad used an edited render of a Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, and the firm later deleted its 'Made in America' branding.

The lawmakers’ letter to the FTC emphasizes equal enforcement of consumer protection laws, stating, “The American people deserve to know that consumer protection laws apply equally to all businesses, regardless of political connections.” The letter also references a prior inquiry about political influence in the agency’s handling of the case.

The American people deserve to know that consumer protection laws apply equally to all businesses, regardless of political connections.

The lawmakers argue the FTC must apply “the same standards” to Trump Mobile as it does to other companies. The agency has not publicly responded to the allegations or the lawmakers’ demands.