New York City issued official press credentials to three self-proclaimed supporters of accused assassin Luigi Mangione, who openly celebrated the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson outside a Manhattan courthouse. The women received the passes from Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration despite publicly advocating for political violence.

City-Credentialed Activists Make Shocking Statements

Ashley Rojas, wearing her city-issued press pass, told reporters outside the courthouse she had only one message about the murdered CEO. Lena Weissbrot went further, claiming Thompson’s children would benefit from his death and comparing the healthcare executive to Osama bin Laden. The trio, calling themselves the Mangionistas, run a joint Instagram account focused on Mangione’s trial for the December murder of Thompson outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel.

Abril Rios, Ashley Rojas, and Lena Weissbrot attended a key evidentiary hearing for Mangione, 28, who has become a controversial figure among critics of the health insurance industry. The women received their credentials under New York City’s relaxed press pass standards, which require applicants to submit six or more published pieces covering breaking news events in person over the past two years. Weissbrot, a Fulbright fellowship recipient and game developer, maintains an online wishlist that includes body armor and a 3D printer.

How Press Credentials Were Obtained

The Mangionistas documented their court attendance through social media posts and blog entries across multiple platforms. Rios operates a Substack blog focused on what she describes as resisting fascism and systemic injustices. She defended obtaining press credentials in a recent blog post, arguing that if others can receive passes for their perspectives, she can use her voice to platform her beliefs. Rojas identified herself as a writer with her own Substack publication featuring progressive political commentary.

Broader Pattern Of Support For Accused Killer

The three women represent the most visible segment of Mangione supporters who have created a carnival atmosphere outside previous court hearings. Supporters have displayed signs demanding his release and worn green hats referencing the Luigi video game character. The credentialing of activists who publicly celebrate violence raises questions about New York City’s press pass standards and the distinction between journalism and advocacy. City officials have not commented on whether the passes will be revoked or if the credentialing process will face review following the women’s courthouse statements Monday.