The Political Scene | The New Yorker Why Luigi Mangione Is Being Treated as a Folk Hero
Dec 11, 2024
Gia Tolentino, a sharp staff writer at The New Yorker, dives into the case of Luigi Mangione, recently arrested for the assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. They discuss the unsettling heroization of Mangione amidst a healthcare crisis, revealing public grievances over the system. Tolentino explores the chaotic social media reactions, the complexities of personal struggles, and societal perceptions of violence. The conversation raises critical questions about privilege, justice, and how health inequities shape our narratives.
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Thompson's Assassination
- UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was murdered in Manhattan.
- The masked assailant fled on a bicycle, sparking a national news story.
Public Reaction to Murder
- Despite widespread condemnation, there's significant online celebration of Thompson's murder.
- This raises questions about the US healthcare system and societal health.
Thompson's Perceived Invincibility
- Brian Thompson was perceived as untouchable due to his wealth and power.
- The audacity of the assassination shocked the public.
