Trump intervened in DOJ antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation

Reports indicate that President Trump intervened in a long-standing Department of Justice antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation, the parent company of Ticketmaster. Following a meeting in the Oval Office with Live Nation CEO Michael Rapino in late February, Trump reportedly directed DOJ officials to settle the case.

The settlement was reached in early March, just days before the antitrust trial was scheduled to begin. While the deal forced some concessions regarding Ticketmaster’s exclusivity contracts and the company’s amphitheater business, it has faced criticism for not being aggressive enough. Some plaintiff states have continued legal action, and a jury eventually found Live Nation liable for operating as a monopoly in April.

Investigations into the settlement process highlighted potential political interference. Live Nation had engaged the law firm Sullivan & Cromwell, which also represents Trump in his personal legal matters. Additionally, DOJ officials noted involvement from Boris Epshteyn, Trump’s private legal coordinator, during the negotiations.