FTC Chairman Recused from Qualcomm Antitrust Case

Chairman Joe Simons recused himself from the FTC’s Qualcomm case in California federal court claiming anti-competitive patent licensing behavior (see 1809190041), an agency spokesperson said Tuesday. The spokesperson declined to give a reason. Simons previously was a partner at Paul Weiss, which has represented Qualcomm. Simons’ recusal divides the commissioners evenly along party lines, and the commission wouldn't act in a 2-2 vote. Documents Simons submitted to the agency disclosing his previous clients and investments don't list any Qualcomm entities. A federal judge on Tuesday denied a joint request from the FTC and Qualcomm to delay the ruling to allow for settlement talks.