A federal judge is pressing the Trump administration for answers after senior officials publicly accused Luigi Mangione of murder, despite a court order restricting such remarks to protect his right to a fair trial.
The controversy began when President Trump told Fox News that Mangione had “shot someone in the back,” a claim later repeated by White House officials, who described Mangione as a “left-wing assassin” and tied his case to political talking points online and on television, according to the New York Times.
Judge Margaret Garnett’s directive comes in response to her earlier April order, which barred Justice Department officials from making statements that could prejudice the case. The judge’s move highlights growing tension over the White House’s influence on the Justice Department, particularly as Trump has publicly urged his attorney general to pursue political rivals.
Mangione is accused of fatally shooting Brian Thompson, the CEO of United Healthcare, just before a December investors meeting. Investigators say he was found carrying an anti-health insurance manifesto. While New York courts recently dropped terrorism charges against him, he still faces a federal murder charge that could bring the death penalty. He has pleaded not guilty.
Mangione’s defense argues that officials have unfairly tied him to unrelated violence and left-wing groups, fueling “prejudicial rhetoric” without evidence. They also noted that commentary surrounding the recent killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk has intensified that narrative, NBC News reports.
Judge Garnett has now ordered the government to submit a sworn declaration explaining how the public comments were made in defiance of her order and outlining measures to prevent further violations. She warned that continued breaches could lead to sanctions, including fines or restrictions on the prosecution. Both the Justice Department and the White House declined to comment.