The Lincoln Project Renee Good, JD Vance, + the Death of Accountability
Jan 9, 2026
The podcast dives into the shocking death of Renee Good, exploring how MAGA leaders attempted to smear her posthumously. It critiques J.D. Vance’s disturbing defense of federal agents, advocating for their impunity. The discussion highlights the disinformation that follows state violence and how authoritarian movements create enemies. It also examines ICE's role in suppressing dissent and using visible brutality as propaganda. Ultimately, the hosts call for accountability and a reassessment of political cruelty in modern America.
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Cruelty As Political Strategy
- The MAGA movement responded to Renee Good's killing with coordinated lies and dehumanization to justify state violence.
- Rick Wilson argues this is performative cruelty meant to close ranks around power and suppress dissent.
Immunity As A Political Shield
- J.D. Vance publicly argued for absolute immunity for federal agents after the shooting.
- Wilson says that stance signals a broader effort to place ICE above accountability and criminalize opposition.
ICE As A Tool To Suppress Dissent
- Wilson contends ICE's role extends beyond immigration enforcement to suppressing dissent.
- He warns labeling opposition 'domestic terrorism' transforms political disagreement into grounds for state violence.