Taylor Lorenz praises alleged murderer Luigi Mangione as morally good

In December 2022, Luigi Mangione was arrested for the murder of Brian Thompson, who was the CEO of UnitedHealthcare. The incident occurred outside the New York Hilton Midtown in Manhattan, leading to a week-long manhunt after Mangione fled the scene. He has been charged with multiple federal crimes including murder through use of a firearm. Following his arrest, there emerged a mixed public reaction, with some viewing Mangione as a vigilante hero fighting against the healthcare industry. These sentiments have garnered support from certain online communities sympathizing with his motives. In April 2025, Taylor Lorenz, a former journalist, sparked outrage during a CNN segment where she described Mangione as “handsome,” “smart,” and “morally good.” This commentary drew heavy criticism, particularly from Conservative figures such as Senator Ted Cruz, who condemned Lorenz’s remarks as celebratory of murder. Lorenz attempted to rationalize Mangione's appeal to women, suggesting his characteristics made him commendable in a society rife with disdain for traditional norms. Such views ignited a backlash on social media, where users characterized her defense as vile and absurd. Beyond the discussions of Mangione's actions and Lorenz's remarks, there are broader societal implications concerning why individuals feel the need to glamorize violent actions against perceived systemic injustices. The dialogue surrounding this case highlights the line between criminality and social discontent with the healthcare system, which has been the backdrop for many disgruntled citizens voicing their frustrations. Additionally, criticisms about the media's role in framing these narratives were prevalent. With many claiming that mainstream journalism often neglects the voices of those who feel wronged by societal structures, the diverging opinions create a rift that complicates how society understands crime and justice. The case of Luigi Mangione is still unfolding, with his next court appearances scheduled for April 18 and June 26. As this case continues to gain traction in online forums, discussions around vigilante actions and the morality of such decisions remain prominent topics. Many argue that celebrating or idolizing figures like Mangione only fosters further division and misunderstanding in public discourse about crime, punishment, and societal integrity. The implications extend beyond individual actions, prompting a reevaluation of how media covers crime and the narratives that emerge from these discussions.