GREEN BAY, WI — State Representative Amaad Rivera-Wagner (D-Green Bay) released the following statement in response to the antitrust action involving Live Nation and Ticketmaster pursued by the U.S. Department of Justice and a coalition of state attorneys general that included Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul:
“Fans across Wisconsin know the frustration of trying to buy a concert ticket only to see the price double once extra fees are added in and a system that feels stacked against them,” said Rep. Rivera-Wagner. “I want to thank Attorney General Josh Kaul for standing up for consumers, artists, and communities against corporate behavior that too often prioritizes profits over people.”
Rivera-Wagner noted that strong enforcement of antitrust laws is essential to protecting both artists and fans. “In Green Bay we proudly celebrate music of every kind, from punk rock to the golden oldies,” Rivera-Wagner said. “Music brings communities together. Corporate greed should not get in the way of that.”
“In recent years we have seen massive corporations report record profits while finding new ways to extract more from working families and the artists who power the industry,” Rivera-Wagner continued. “Holding companies accountable helps ensure that markets work for people, not just the biggest corporations.”
Rivera-Wagner said the case represents an important step toward restoring fairness and competition. “When markets are allowed to function fairly, artists can thrive, venues can compete, and fans can afford to participate in the culture that brings our communities together,” Rivera-Wagner said.
