CNN anchor and White House Correspondent Kaitlan Collins is facing criticism after posting a tweet that linked to the legal defense website for Luigi Mangione, the 26-year-old accused of assassinating UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.
On Friday, Collins shared a tweet that included a link to a website set up by Mangione’s legal team.
“Luigi Mangione’s legal defense team launched a new website today,” Collins wrote before deleting the post without any explanation.
Here’s the deleted post. pic.twitter.com/lWbr9EwwA1
— Stephen L. Miller (@redsteeze) February 15, 2025
Dennis Quaid’s #1 Warning for Americans
Although she did not explicitly call for donations, the link directed users to the website where Mangione’s defense fund is hosted, raising concerns about whether she was encouraging financial support for the suspect.
Journalist Stephen L. Miller pointed out a potential conflict of interest related to the fundraiser.
Real bottom of the barrel stuff. Even for @kaitlancollins pic.twitter.com/OCrUQIkmwq
— Stephen L. Miller (@redsteeze) February 15, 2025
The attorney representing Mangione, Karen Freidman Agnifilo, is a CNN legal analyst, meaning she could financially benefit from any donations received through the website.
Mangione is currently awaiting trial in New York, where he has been charged with first-degree murder, two counts of second-degree murder, and multiple firearm possession charges.
In a statement posted on his defense website, Mangione expressed gratitude for the support he has received.
“I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support,” Mangione said.
“Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has flooded MDC from across the country, and around the globe.”
“While it is impossible for me to reply to most letters, please know that I read every one that I receive.”
Luigi Mangione releases first statement since his arrest:
“I am overwhelmed by – and grateful for – everyone who has written me to share their stories and express their support. Powerfully, this support has transcended political, racial, and even class divisions, as mail has… pic.twitter.com/pHCOqB5wRv
— Pop Base (@PopBase) February 15, 2025
Thompson’s assassination has sparked debate over vigilantism and the role of the healthcare industry, with some expressing sympathy for Mangione’s alleged actions.
His supporters argue that the health insurance system has failed many Americans, and some have framed his case as a response to corporate greed.
Beyond legal backing, Mangione has reportedly gained attention for his appearance, leading to a surge of love letters and messages of admiration from supporters.
He has already raised $300,000 from over 10,000 donors to fund his defense.
Despite the public support, Mangione has pleaded not guilty to all charges and remains in custody as he awaits trial.
The controversy surrounding Collins’ tweet and its implications for CNN’s coverage of the case continues to unfold, with questions being raised about journalistic ethics and potential conflicts of interest.
The opinions expressed by contributors and/or content partners are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of LifeZette. Contact us for guidelines on submitting your own commentary.
Read the full article here
