In the wake of devastating floods that swept through central Texas, resulting in the tragic loss of at least 80 lives, a Houston pediatrician's Facebook post has led to her termination from Blue Fish Pediatrics. Dr. Christina B. Propst, under the alias "Chris Tina," made a controversial statement on social media that has since gone viral, causing a stir for its politically charged content and perceived insensitivity towards the affected individuals.
The post, which was widely shared, including by the account Libs of TikTok, read, “May all visitors, children, non-MAGA voters and pets be safe and dry. Kerr County MAGA voted to gut FEMA. They deny climate change. May they get what they voted for. Bless their hearts.” Kerr County, which was among the most severely affected areas by the floods, saw over 76 percent of its approximately 50,000 residents vote for former President Donald Trump in the 2020 elections, according to county records. The county also faced immense tragedy, with 27 campers and counselors from Camp Mystic, a Christian summer camp, confirmed to have perished in the floods.
The backlash to Propst's post was immediate and fierce. Social media users, ranging from everyday commentators to medical professionals, condemned the remarks as unprofessional and lacking empathy for the victims and their families. The ire was not just confined to the digital realm; Blue Fish Pediatrics swiftly issued a statement announcing Propst's dismissal, asserting that her post did not align with the organization's values, standards, or mission. Similarly, the Memorial Hermann Health System, a partner of Blue Fish Pediatrics, emphasized their zero-tolerance policy for such rhetoric, clarifying that Propst had never been their direct employee.
The Texas Medical Board joined in the response, with Board president Dr. Sherif Zaafran stating that the agency would "thoroughly investigate" any formal complaints against Propst, although no disciplinary proceedings had been initiated at the time of reporting. Meanwhile, Propst seems to have retreated from the public eye, with the New York Post noting that her professional profiles on affiliated websites were removed, and her Facebook account altered.
The incident raises critical questions about medical professionalism and the politicization of disasters. Critics argue that healthcare professionals, while entitled to personal political views, must exercise caution in public expressions that might suggest bias or a lack of compassion. Such instances can erode public trust and invite scrutiny regarding medical impartiality.
Moreover, the controversy has spotlighted the increasing tendency in American public discourse to view tragedies through a partisan lens. As Texas communities grapple with the aftermath of the floods, there is a growing call for a return to compassion and unity, principles that should eclipse political divides, particularly in moments of collective grief and recovery.
