The U.S. Department of Justice's antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation and Ticketmaster faces uncertainty following President-elect Trump's selection of Matt Gaetz as Attorney General.

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The appointment raises questions about the future of the DOJ's May 2024 antitrust case, which alleges Live Nation uses its dominant position as concert promoter, ticket seller, and venue owner to stifle competition in live entertainment. Under the Biden administration, the case sought to potentially break up Live Nation and Ticketmaster.

Live Nation executives appear optimistic about the potential changes. During a recent earnings call, Live Nation President Joe Berchtold expressed hope for "a more traditional antitrust approach" with minimal government intervention. He specifically noted that the current push to break up Live Nation and Ticketmaster represents a "highly interventionist approach" unlikely to continue under Republican leadership.

However, Gaetz's appointment faces significant hurdles. DOJ officials have publicly questioned his qualifications, and Senate confirmation remains uncertain. Senate Republicans have expressed skepticism about the nomination, while DOJ staffers hope the Senate will block the appointment.

If confirmed, Gaetz's leadership could significantly impact the DOJ's enforcement priorities, potentially affecting ongoing investigations including the Live Nation antitrust case. Live Nation has indicated plans to engage with the new administration once DOJ appointments are finalized.

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