A Houston-based pediatrician is no longer employed after a controversial social media post in which she appeared to politicize the devastating Central Texas floods drew widespread criticism from the public and ultimately led to her termination. The physician, Dr. Christina Propst, was a practicing pediatrician at Blue Fish Pediatrics before her now-viral comments sparked outrage among parents, patients, and the general community.
The controversy began after Dr. Propst posted a statement on social media during the height of the flooding crisis in Kerr County. In the message, she expressed sympathy selectively toward certain groups, while pointedly criticizing the political leanings of the county. Her post stated, “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.”
This message was met with immediate backlash as Central Texas communities, including Kerr County, were dealing with one of the most devastating natural disasters in recent memory. Heavy rainfall had caused flash floods in the Texas Hill Country region, raising rivers to record levels and leaving people little time to escape. The death toll from the flooding stood at 75 people, including 27 children, with dozens still unaccounted for.
As news of the post circulated widely, many expressed concern over the tone and timing of the message. Calls and emails flooded local media outlets from viewers and readers who were shocked and dismayed by the politicization of such a tragic event. The post was perceived as lacking compassion and empathy at a time when unity and support were most needed.
In response to the growing controversy, Blue Fish Pediatrics, where Dr. Propst was employed, issued a public statement on their official channels. The clinic confirmed that Dr. Propst was no longer affiliated with the practice. The statement read, “This past weekend, we were made aware of a social media comment from one of our physicians. The individual is no longer employed by Blue Fish Pediatrics. As we previously mentioned in our original statement, we strongly condemn the comments that were made in that post. That post does not reflect the values, standards, or mission of Blue Fish Pediatrics. 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.”
The statement also reaffirmed the clinic’s commitment to supporting families and communities impacted by the flooding. “We continue to extend our full support to the families and the surrounding communities who are grieving, recovering, and searching for hope,” the message concluded.
Community leaders and state officials have since urged residents across Texas to focus on helping victims and not to allow political tensions to distract from relief efforts. In recent days, volunteer and emergency response teams have continued to aid displaced families, while local shelters and food distribution centers remain overwhelmed by the need for resources.
The tragedy in Central Texas has left a deep emotional and physical impact, particularly in Kerr County and neighboring areas. Rivers like the Guadalupe surged over 20 feet above normal levels, flooding homes, camps, and public infrastructure. A summer camp near the river confirmed the loss of 27 campers and counselors, underlining the tragic toll of the disaster.
In a time of mourning and recovery, Propst’s post struck many as a divisive and hurtful remark. While public discourse around political issues like FEMA funding and climate change remains heated in the United States, most community members believed that a time of widespread grief and loss was not the appropriate moment for such commentary. Many called for greater sensitivity from professionals who are expected to offer healing, especially those working with children.
Although Dr. Propst has not issued a public apology or further clarification as of this report, the incident has reignited discussions about social media responsibility, especially among individuals in public-facing roles like healthcare professionals. The medical community in Houston has also quietly reacted, with some practitioners noting that compassion and professionalism must always be prioritized, regardless of political views.
As cleanup and recovery continue in the flood-hit regions, the focus remains on supporting those affected and honoring the lives lost. State and federal emergency agencies are still working to restore access, deliver aid, and assist in rebuilding efforts. In communities like Kerr County, where neighbors are still accounting for loved ones and salvaging their homes, healing will take time. And for the families who lost children, no words—online or off—can ever ease the pain. This incident is a stark reminder of how powerful, and potentially damaging, words can be during times of crisis.
