Google’s Attempt to Dismiss US Antitrust Case Over Digital Advertising Fails

Alphabet’s Google must face trial over allegations that it illegally dominates the online advertising technology market. U.S. District Judge Leonie Brinkema, presiding in Alexandria, Virginia, denied Google’s motion to dismiss the case during a hearing on Friday, as reported by Reuters.

Google had sought a summary judgment, arguing that antitrust laws do not prohibit companies from refusing to deal with rivals. The company also contended that regulators had failed to accurately define the ad tech market. However, Judge Brinkema found that there were factual disputes requiring a trial, which is scheduled to begin on September 9.

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The Justice Department, along with a coalition of states, filed the lawsuit against Google last year. The suit alleges that Google unlawfully monopolizes digital advertising and charges users excessively. The primary remedy sought by the plaintiffs is the breakup of Google’s digital advertising business to foster competition in the market.

A Google spokesperson responded to the ruling, stating, “We look forward to setting the record straight.”

In addition to moving the case to trial, Judge Brinkema ruled in favor of the regulators’ request to block a former FBI agent, who had served as a cybersecurity consultant for Google, from testifying as an expert witness. This decision could impact the evidence and testimonies presented during the trial.

Source: Reuters