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NewsWUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)September 10, 2026Hillsborough County

Judge recommends fine and reprimand for South Florida nurse over TikTok video targeting Karoline Leavitt

Photo: WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)

An administrative law judge has recommended that the Florida Department of Health reprimand, fine $250, and require continuing education for a South Florida nurse who posted a viral TikTok video wishing a traumatic birth on former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. Lexie Lawler, the nurse, previously had her nursing license suspended under an emergency order following the video's dissemination and subsequent public reaction from state officials.

HealthcareProfessional LicensingSocial MediaAdministrative Law
Read the full story at WUSF — Tampa Bay NPR (Local & State)

Why It Matters

A licensed health care professional faces state disciplinary action, a financial penalty, and mandated education over comments made on social media, impacting her professional standing and employment.

Key Facts

Each fact below is taken from the article. Click one to see the exact passage.

Who's Mentioned

PersonRobert Cohen“Administrative law judge who issued the recommended order.”PersonChaya Raichik“Social media commentator who disseminated the video under 'Libs of TikTok'.”PersonKaroline Leavitt“Former White House press secretary who was the subject of the TikTok video.”PersonJulie Gallagher“Attorney representing Lexie Lawler.”OrganizationFlorida Board of Nursing“State board recommended to impose penalties on the nurse.”OrganizationFlorida Department of Health“State agency that previously suspended the nurse's license and received the judg”PersonLexie Lawler“Labor and delivery nurse facing disciplinary recommendations over a social media”PersonJames Uthmeier“Attorney General who weighed in on the case.”OrganizationBaptist Health Boca Raton Regional Hospital“Former employer of Lexie Lawler.”