As we gather here today, it is clear that the antitrust community is at an inflection point. The Division has been litigating more merger trials than ever before, with six civil antitrust lawsuits currently pending - the largest number in over 20 years. This surge in litigation is a testament to our commitment to promoting competition and protecting consumers.

In recent years, we have seen a trend towards corporate control over information flow and public discourse, resulting in higher consumer prices, lower wages, and fewer new businesses being created. Oligopoly behavior has become rampant, depriving consumers and workers of the benefits of robust competition. In many sectors, just one or two powerful companies dominate, stifling innovation and progress.

The importance of enforcing antitrust laws cannot be overstated. As lawyers, we have a duty to uphold the law as an institution, and it is our responsibility to ensure that these laws are respected and enforced. The history of American law, including antitrust law, has been shaped by institutions like Georgetown University, which was founded just four years after the Constitution was ratified.

As I reflect on my first year at the Antitrust Division, I am amazed at the incredible work of our team. We have challenged or obtained merger abandonments in six cases, and we are committed to using every tool available to promote competition and meet the moment.

In this keynote address, I will be discussing the importance of respecting antitrust laws and reflecting market realities. I will explore the challenges we face in enforcing these laws, as well as the benefits that come from a competitive marketplace. I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you today and exploring ways in which we can work together to promote competition and protect consumers.

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