Nurse claims retaliation after opposing doctor’s remarks on Charlie Kirk killing

A nurse in New Jersey says she was punished after objecting to a doctor’s comments celebrating the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

New York Post reported that Lexi Kuenzle, a nurse at Englewood Health, has filed a lawsuit alleging she was suspended without pay after confronting surgeon Matthew Jung about remarks that Kirk “deserved” to be killed.

According to the lawsuit, the confrontation took place in a public area of the hospital, near the nurse’s station, where other medical staff and even a patient could hear. Kuenzle said she could not remain silent when she overheard Dr. Jung dismissing Kirk’s life.

Disputed Remarks Spark Heated Exchange

The conflict began when Dr. Jung allegedly told nurses and staff that he “hated” Kirk and that the activist “had it coming.” The statements were reportedly made after news of Kirk’s assassination became public.

Kuenzle responded in shock, telling the surgeon, “You’re a doctor. How could you say someone deserved to die?” She later recalled to The Post that the incident left her stunned, describing the experience as “mind-blowing.”

Her initial reaction was to express dismay, saying, “Oh, my God! That’s terrible! I love him!” The nurse maintains that her objection was consistent with both medical ethics and basic human decency.

Hospital’s Response Draws Scrutiny

After the exchange, Kuenzle reported the surgeon’s words to hospital management. She also posted her concerns on social media, questioning how such remarks could align with professional standards like the Hippocratic Oath.

The next day, Kuenzle said she was suspended without pay. According to her, a union representative even suggested she should look for another position rather than expect support from Englewood Health.

Dr. Jung allegedly attempted to smooth things over with other staff by offering to buy lunch, but Kuenzle said she was excluded from this gesture following her suspension. It remains unclear whether Dr. Jung faced any disciplinary measures from the hospital.

Lawsuit Seeks Damages for Suspension

In response, Kuenzle filed a complaint in Bergen County Superior Court. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages, arguing that she faced retaliation for objecting to behavior that undermined patient trust and professional ethics.

The legal filing states she “had the audacity to question” how a physician could uphold medical ethics while appearing to celebrate the violent killing of a “non-violent Christian speaker.”

Kuenzle maintains that her concerns were rooted in patient safety and professional integrity. By suspending her, she argues, the hospital punished her for doing what was right.

Broader Questions Over Medical Ethics

The controversy has drawn commentary from political activists. GOP organizer Scott Presler raised concerns about whether a physician who expressed hatred for a political figure could treat patients impartially.

“Would he treat them differently? Would he allow his emotions to cloud his judgment, as he did by saying such a statement in front of a patient?” Presler asked, highlighting the potential risks for patient care.

The hospital has not publicly commented on whether Dr. Jung remains under review. For Kuenzle, however, the matter has already disrupted her career and reputation.

Uncertainty Surrounds Doctor’s Standing

As the lawsuit proceeds, many questions remain unanswered. It is still unknown whether Englewood Health has taken any action against Dr. Jung or whether the institution supports his continued employment.

For Kuenzle, the issue is not only about her own treatment but also about setting boundaries for professional conduct in medicine. She insists doctors must maintain impartiality regardless of political or personal views.

The case underscores the intersection of free speech, workplace rights, and ethical duties in healthcare. How the court responds may shape expectations for hospital accountability and medical professionalism in politically charged times.