Justice Dept. Seeks Death Penalty for Mangione

U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has directed federal prosecutors to seek the death penalty against Luigi Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson in a premeditated attack in December. Mangione faces both state and federal charges, with the latter including a murder charge that could result in the death penalty if convicted. Bondi’s decision aligns with President Trump's agenda to combat violent crime, and she characterized the killing as political violence, citing Mangione's documented hostility towards the health insurance industry. Despite New York not having a state death penalty, the federal charges open the possibility for such a sentence. Mangione has pleaded not guilty to the charges and has yet to enter a plea for the federal indictment. This case marks a significant moment as it is the first time the Justice Department will pursue the death penalty under Bondi's tenure.