Caroline Downey

When a high-profile violent crime sparks bizarre online idolatry, the darkest corners of social media culture expose a disturbing romanticization of alleged criminals. Caroline Downey reacts to the horrifying and bizarre internet reactions following the arrest of Luigi Mangione, who was charged in the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson. Unpacking the disturbing social media trends—from viral fan edits, "thirst traps," and sympathizers glorifying a cold-blooded killing to commentators treating a targeted assassination as anti-corporate heroism—Caroline exposes how extreme partisan grievance and online brainrot distort fundamental moral clarity. What does the chilling glorification of Luigi Mangione reveal about the breakdown of moral norms, media-fueled radicalization, and the dangerous normalization of political violence in digital spaces? Watch Caroline’s full analysis, leave your thoughts below, and subscribe to National Review!