NYC council moves to clamp down on press credentials after fury over Mangione fan girls’ access

The move comes after there was outrage over three "reporters," who called themselves the "Mangionistas," who were granted badges. Mayor Zohran Mamdani at the time refused to pull their press credentials. Video of the "reporters" went viral of them praising Luigi Mangione, who pleaded guilty in the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson.

The bill proposes an amendment that will require the Mayor’s Office of Entertainment and Media to show that there is “a preponderance” of evidence to suspend or revoke passes. The current language states that there has to be "clear and convincing" evidence.

“Press credentials are essential tools for journalists,” Menin said in a statement, per the New York Post. “For this system to work as intended, there must be a thoughtful process for issuing credentials and, when necessary, revoking them. We’re committed to ensuring a process that balances real logistical, safety, and journalistic concerns. Our only goal here is to help journalists do their critical work, in good times and bad.”

The bill was sponsored by NYC Council Member Chris Banks. Although Mamdani said they never should have been able to get the passes, he has not made any notable changes to the press credentialing system since then. VIN News reported that a spokesman for the mayor's office said the review is still underway, but Mamdani has not taken a position on the legislation.

Banks said, “Press credentials play an important role in ensuring members of the media can cover government and public events on behalf of the public."

“At the same time, recent experiences have highlighted the importance of maintaining clear standards and accountability within the credentialing process," he added.