We write to express our support for Senator Edward Markey’s request to the Federal Trade Commission to open an inquiry into allegations from consumers that the maker of dietary supplements, Herbalife, may be a pyramid scheme. The senator is a longstanding consumer champion with whom we have worked closely for decades in our capacity as consumer advocates.
When he was a member of the House, Markey introduced and got enacted numerous automobile, telecom, and product safety protections. With the latest allegations that General Motors covered up ignition defects, Markey was the first senator to demand that the federal government collect more detailed information and make it available to the public.
We believe Markey did the right thing by calling for an investigation of Herbalife to sort out the allegations against the company. Others have asked for the same inquiry. The senator asked simply that the FTC open an investigation, and it is the agency with the jurisdiction to look at fraud, including pyramid schemes.
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Knowing Ed Markey’s lifelong record of championing consumer causes, we reject the suggestion that he’s motivated by money or working to promote the interests of a hedge fund. His only priority has always been protecting consumers.