Dr. Propst, a pediatrician formerly associated with Blue Fish Pediatrics, has publicly apologized for a social media post made during a devastating flash flood in Kerr County, Texas. This flooding has resulted in nearly 120 fatalities and left many others missing, sparking outrage over her comments that seemed to express disdain towards the local voters.
The incident began when Dr. Propst made a post on social media, wishing that voters in Kerr County, a region that largely supports Donald Trump, would “get what they voted for” amidst the rising waters. Her comments were made before she was fully briefed on the scope of the atrocity taking place in central Texas. According to the Environmental Defense Fund, approximately 1.8 trillion gallons of rain inundated the region and led to the catastrophic flooding. As a result, that river jumped an incredible 26 feet in only 45 minutes.
This natural disaster’s impacts have been profound. So far, at least 119 people have lost their lives. This means an additional two dozen plus campers and counselors from Camp Mystic. At the same time, more than 160 people are still considered missing in the surrounding areas.
In the wake of the controversy ignited by her remarks, Blue Fish Pediatrics, Dr. Propst’s employer, quickly distanced itself from her comments. The clinic released a statement asserting, “We strongly condemn the comments that were made in that post.” They insist that the feelings communicated by Dr. Propst are in no way representative of their values or mission. The organization stated, “We do not support or condone any statement that politicizes tragedy, diminishes human dignity, or fails to clearly uphold compassion for every child and family, regardless of background or beliefs.”
Additionally, Dr. Propst was unequivocal in accepting full responsibility for her comments. This decision followed the outpouring of public sentiment and the extraordinary loss of life. In a follow-up post, she expressed her regret, saying, “I speak to you as a mother, a neighbor, a pediatrician, and a human being who is deeply sorry.” She understood the hurt her flippant remark caused families suffering from “indescribable grief.” In her comments to TN she made it clear that she never sought to politicize the tragedy.
Dr. Propst’s comments included another controversial line wishing for safety only for those who did not support Trump, stating, “May all visitors, children, non-Maga voters and pets be safe and dry.” These remarks further fueled criticism against her.
Healthcare providers like Dr. Propst have to walk a tightrope in their public statements. We believe this approach better positions them to establish and uphold trust with their communities. This shocking event poses further crucial inquiries. It calls on medical practitioners to reflect on their duty when they choose to enter the political arena, more so in times of crisis.