Earlier this week, Capital One announced that it would acquire Discover Financial Services in a deal that is valued at $35.3 billion.

Merging these giants -- two of the largest credit card issuers in the country -- would further consolidate power and influence in the lending industry. It would not only make it harder to hold these corporations accountable, but it would also lead to fewer choices for consumers. Our economy thrives with healthy competition, and our democracy flourishes when our economy works for everyone. This merger hampers both.

Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Chair of the Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee, issued a statement after the merger was announced:

“With a merger this size, the regulators need to ensure our financial system remains strong and competitive, so that consumers continue to have access to safe, affordable financial products and services. A rubber-stamped merger that makes powerful financial companies even bigger and more powerful will do nothing for families.”

The merger of Discover and Capital One would be a big step in the wrong direction for consumers.

ADD YOUR NAME to demand the Federal Trade Commission block the Capital One/Discover merger today.