1776Reporting
In the wake of the shocking killing of UnitedHealth Group executive Brian Thompson, a leaked video reveals CEO Andrew Witty advising employees to avoid speaking to the media. His comments, made during a virtual meeting, have sparked intense scrutiny as the company navigates backlash.
“My strong advice and request to everybody is: just don’t engage with the media,” Witty is heard saying in the clip, which surfaced on Substack. “If you’re approached, I would recommend not responding, and if necessary, simply refer them to our own media organization.”
Witty criticized recent media coverage of Thompson’s death, calling it “aggressive, inappropriate and disrespectful.” He also addressed the wave of misinformation circulating online, describing much of it as “frankly, offensive.”
The killing of Thompson, CEO of UnitedHealthcare, the largest health insurer in the United States, has sent shockwaves across the business world. The executive was murdered in New York City just before he was set to announce the company’s latest earnings at an annual investor meeting. These revenues were projected to reach an astounding $450 billion to $455 billion this year.
Thompson’s slaying has reignited public anger over restrictive health insurance policies. Social media has been ablaze with commentary, with users expressing frustration at the profit-driven model of health care. UnitedHealthcare, which provides benefits to over 50 million Americans, reported a $16.4 billion profit on $281.4 billion in revenue last year, according to Reuters.
Public Outcry Over Corporate Profits
The controversy surrounding Witty’s remarks comes amid heightened scrutiny of executive compensation within the company. Last year, Thompson earned $10.2 million in total compensation, while Witty’s pay package stood at $23.5 million, making him the highest-paid health insurance CEO in the country. His salary was 352 times the median pay of UnitedHealth employees, according to S&P Global.
"There's no value in engaging with the media," United Health CEO tells employees in internal video leaked to me.
Watch the full video here: https://t.co/ySDtxk6gN6 pic.twitter.com/V6s9QXC6ny
— Ken Klippenstein (@kenklippenstein) December 6, 2024
UnitedHealth Group’s financial dominance and executive pay have become focal points of criticism as Americans grapple with rising health care costs and limited coverage. The company’s stock also felt the pressure, dropping approximately 10% after news of Thompson’s death, closing at $549.62 per share on Friday.
A Company Under Fire
In his remarks, Witty urged employees to avoid fueling the narrative being shaped by media outlets. “There’s no value in engaging with the media,” he said, emphasizing that the information being shared is often distorted. Despite his plea for silence, critics argue the company’s refusal to engage leaves unanswered questions about the circumstances surrounding Thompson’s death and the broader issues tied to health care inequality.
The video clip of Witty’s statements was posted by independent journalist Ken Klippenstein, who noted that UnitedHealth spokespeople declined an opportunity to comment. In his Substack post, Klippenstein referred to company representatives as “paid flacks who only comment on things when it’s in their interests to do so.”
Navigating the Fallout
UnitedHealth Group is now facing a dual crisis—managing the fallout from Thompson’s tragic death while defending itself against public outrage. The events highlight the fragile intersection of corporate governance, public accountability, and human tragedy.
As questions mount, one thing is clear: UnitedHealth Group’s leadership will need more than silence to rebuild trust with the public. Whether or not they choose to engage with the media, the public will be watching closely for answers.
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