Story perspectives

DOJ Antitrust Chief Resigns Amid Live Nation Investigation

2/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Gail Slater resigns as the U.S. Department of Justice antitrust chief.
The DOJ, with 40 state attorneys general, pursues Live Nation over alleged anticompetitive practices inflating ticket prices, amid tensions with Trump officials.
Interim chief Omeed Assefi aims to maintain Slater's aggressive enforcement stance.
Jury selection is set for March 2, 2025, with the outcome uncertain if the DOJ withdraws.

History

Historical Context

The Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act, passed in 1974, strengthened U.S. antitrust enforcement by allowing the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice to review corporate mergers for anticompetitive practices. This legislation laid the groundwork for significant cases, including the current investigation into Live Nation by the DOJ and 40 state attorneys general, highlighting ongoing concerns about monopolization in the entertainment industry.

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Story summary

Gail Slater resigns as the U.S. Department of Justice antitrust chief.
The DOJ, with 40 state attorneys general, pursues Live Nation over alleged anticompetitive practices inflating ticket prices, amid tensions with Trump officials.
Interim chief Omeed Assefi aims to maintain Slater's aggressive enforcement stance.
Jury selection is set for March 2, 2025, with the outcome uncertain if the DOJ withdraws.

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