Controversial Support for Accused Murderer
Former Washington Post reporter and Vox Media podcaster Taylor Lorenz has recently come under fire for her comments regarding accused murderer Luigi Mangione. In discussing Mangione’s growing fanbase, she described him as “handsome,” “smart,” and “morally superior,” defending those who idolize him.
She remarked that it’s rather amusing to see wealthy media figures expressing outrage over someone admiring a murderer, noting that society has a habit of glorifying criminals. “We allow all kinds of murderers to take the spotlight. They even get documentaries on Netflix,” she pointed out during a lively CNN interview.
Mangione, 26, is currently on trial for the assassination of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, who was shot outside a hotel in Manhattan. Prosecutors allege that Mangione plotted the murder to instill fear within the health insurance sector, an accusation highlighted in a magazine found by police shortly after the crime.
Since the incident, Mangione has gained a following among certain radical left circles, with some individuals viewing his alleged actions as justifiable or even commendable. A subreddit dedicated to him, r/FreeLuigi, boasts over 38,000 members—mostly young women—who fervently assert his innocence and admire his looks.
There’s even been a crowdfunding campaign started in his name, showcasing the level of support he’s garnered.
During the CNN segment, Lorenz was asked about the media’s critical stance towards the admiration expressed by Mangione’s female supporters during court appearances. She found their affection towards a murder suspect to be entirely rational, suggesting that it’s rare to encounter someone who embodies such “morally good” qualities.
As reported, the New York Police Department labeled the incident as a “brazen, targeted attack.” In a notable twist, the Trump administration is now seeking the death penalty for Mangione, marking a significant decision as the first federal execution in Manhattan in nearly seven decades.
Mangione has pleaded not guilty to state charges related to the case, and his upcoming federal court date is scheduled for April 18th, followed by a state hearing on June 26th.
