Controversial journalist Taylor Lorenz, formerly of The Washington Post, is under fire after sharing a photo of Blue Cross Blue Shield (BCBS) CEO Kim A. Keck on social media—just hours after UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson was gunned down in broad daylight on a busy New York City street.
Lorenz, known for her provocative online presence, posted the image on both Bluesky and X (formerly Twitter) amid a social media storm following Thompson’s death early Wednesday morning. The UnitedHealthcare executive was shot from behind outside a Midtown Manhattan hotel hosting a company conference. Surveillance footage shows the shocking moment, and Thompson was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.
The timing of Lorenz’s post raised eyebrows, as it coincided with BCBS’s announcement of new coverage policies that have already sparked public backlash. Specifically, the insurer revealed plans to stop covering full anesthesia for certain surgeries—a move that has enraged patients and healthcare advocates alike.
A Dangerous Implied Message?
While Lorenz didn’t issue a direct threat, her post, featuring Keck’s photo alongside critical commentary about healthcare executives, is being interpreted by many as a thinly veiled call for violence.
In one of her posts, Lorenz claimed she was merely advocating for “peaceful letter-writing campaigns” to pressure insurance companies. However, she also wrote a chilling follow-up:
“And people wonder why we want these executives dead.”
The comment immediately sparked a firestorm. Critics accused her of glorifying Thompson’s assassination and potentially inciting further attacks on healthcare industry leaders.
Lorenz didn’t stop there. She reshared another post questioning whether sending emails to CEOs with the subject line “You’re next” could be considered a criminal threat.
Public Reaction: Applause and Outrage
The response online has been polarizing. While some condemned Lorenz for her rhetoric, others celebrated Thompson’s death. A memorial post by UnitedHealthcare for their slain CEO was flooded with over 30,000 laughing emojis and comments praising the shooter.
One user wrote:
“Finally, someone is standing up to the greed of these billionaires.”
Another added:
“Healthcare CEOs have blood on their hands. Don’t expect sympathy.”
Despite the online vitriol, law enforcement is treating Thompson’s murder as a targeted killing, though no suspects have been identified.
The Larger Picture: Healthcare’s Growing Tensions
The healthcare industry has been facing increasing scrutiny amid rising costs, limited coverage, and mounting public frustration. Many Americans view insurance CEOs as symbols of corporate greed. According to a recent Pew Research poll, nearly 68% of Americans believe that private insurance companies prioritize profits over patient care.
Kim A. Keck, who has led BCBS since 2021, is no stranger to controversy. Under her leadership, the company has made several cost-cutting decisions that critics say prioritize shareholders over policyholders.
One industry insider, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:
“These executives are becoming public enemies in the eyes of frustrated consumers. The tragedy with Thompson might not be the last if the public’s anger isn’t addressed.”
No Comment Yet
Both Taylor Lorenz and Blue Cross Blue Shield have been contacted for comment regarding the controversy. As of now, neither has responded.
Law enforcement continues to investigate Thompson’s murder, and the online chatter surrounding Lorenz’s posts is only adding fuel to an already volatile situation.
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What's Up Team
If this person gets assassinated, Taylor Lorenz should be charged as an accessory to murder. Actions have consequences.