This absurdly outsized escort? It's a flex. Against US. They're not afraid Mangione will act out. Motherfucker is disabled. They're not afraid for his safety. America is practically united in our support for him. This is, as usual, about intimidation. They want to break his spirit and threaten yours.
Keen-eyed friends below have noted the deeply legally embattled Mayor, Eric Adams, just behind Mangione in this picture. Ironic.