States to Resume Trial Seeking Live Nation Breakup on Monday

Bipartisan group of over 30 states take lead in antitrust case against Live Nation after DOJ settlement.

Mar. 13, 2026 at 8:06pm

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A bipartisan group of more than 30 states plan to resume an antitrust trial against Live Nation Entertainment Inc. on Monday, taking the lead in the case after the US Justice Department reached a settlement with the company over claims that it illegally monopolized the live events industry.

Why it matters

The states' decision to move forward with the trial signals their continued commitment to challenging Live Nation's dominance in the live events market, which some argue has led to higher ticket prices and less competition for consumers.

The details

Jeffrey Kessler, an attorney representing the proceeding states which include New York and California, disclosed the plans during a hearing Friday in New York federal court before US District Judge Arun Subramanian, who is presiding over the case. The states involved in the trial include Arkansas, Iowa, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma and South Dakota, all of which have Republican attorneys general.

  • The trial is set to resume on Monday, March 17, 2026.

The players

Live Nation Entertainment Inc.

A live events company that operates concert venues, sells tickets, and promotes live shows.

US Justice Department

The federal agency responsible for enforcing antitrust laws and investigating potential monopolistic practices.

Jeffrey Kessler

An attorney representing the group of over 30 states in the antitrust case against Live Nation.

Arun Subramanian

The US District Judge presiding over the case against Live Nation.

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What’s next

The judge will preside over the resumed trial starting on Monday, March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

The states' decision to move forward with the trial against Live Nation despite the DOJ settlement signals their continued commitment to challenging the company's dominance in the live events industry, which some argue has led to higher prices and less competition for consumers.