Live Nation Trial 2.0: States Still Eyeing Ticketmaster Breakup With Support From Senate Dems
By Rachel Scharf
Published on March 16, 2026.
State attorneys general have resumed the antitrust trial against Live Nation, following a surprise settlement from the Department of Justice (DOA). The DOJ's agreement demands that Live Nation change practices that have allegedly stifled competition in live music, such as capping ticketing fees and relaxing exclusivity policies, but does not require the company to divest Ticketmaster. Many states, including New York and California, have refused to sign onto the DOJ settlement. A report by Democrats on the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, which concluded that Ticketmaster is largely responsible for the rising cost of concert tickets, supports the idea of a split up. The report also criticizes the DOJ's settlement for failing to protect musicians, their fans and independent venues.
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