Will Trump’s DOJ actually take on Ticketmaster?
The Verge
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has faced significant challenges as its head antitrust enforcer, Gail Slater, stepped down just weeks before a major court case against Ticketmaster. Slater’s departure, announced abruptly on her personal X account in mid-February, came amid growing tensions within the agency and concerns about President Donald Trump's influence over antitrust decisions. Her exit raised questions about whether the DOJ can effectively pursue high-stakes anti-monopoly cases under current leadership.
Over the summer, two of Slater’s top deputies also left the division, further destabilizing the team. Leaks had long hinted at internal conflicts between Slater and DOJ leadership, with Trump’s tendency to intervene in deals personally adding to the uncertainty. This instability has cast doubt on whether the DOJ can maintain its momentum in addressing monopolistic practices, particularly in tech-heavy industries.
The Ticketmaster case was expected to be one of the year's most significant antitrust trials. The company has faced criticism for exploiting its market dominance, hiking ticket prices, and limiting access to live entertainment. If the DOJ succeeds, it could set a precedent for holding monopolies accountable in consumer tech.
However, with Slater gone and leadership turmoil within the division, some fear that Trump’s personal involvement may overshadow traditional legal processes. This raises concerns about whether the DOJ can impartially enforce antitrust laws or if political influence will undermine its efforts. For tech-savvy consumers and industry watchdogs, this uncertainty highlights the importance of strong antitrust enforcement to protect competition and consumer rights.
Ultimately, the DOJ’s ability to tackle cases like Ticketmaster—and uphold fair business practices—will depend on whether it can resolve internal conflicts and maintain a clear separation between politics and law. For tech enthusiasts and those concerned with monopolistic behavior, this situation underscores the need for transparency and accountability in antitrust enforcement to ensure a level playing field for businesses and consumers alike.
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Originally published on The Verge on 2/23/2026