Florida Nurse Erik Martindale Relinquishes License After 'MAGA' Post
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced Erik Martindale relinquished his nursing license after a post refusing anesthesia to 'MAGA' patients.
Overview
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said on Jan. 29, 2026 that Erik Martindale voluntarily relinquished his Florida registered nurse license after a post vowing to refuse anesthesia to "MAGA" patients, according to an X post.
The move follows public outrage and a similar action against Lexie Lawler, whose license was revoked after a video wishing White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt childbirth harm, according to state officials.
Martindale said his Facebook and Instagram accounts were hacked, according to his statement, while Uthmeier wrote "Healthcare is not contingent on political beliefs" on X, officials confirmed.
The Florida Department of Health lists Martindale's status as "voluntary relinquishment," which it says is not discipline, and a state official said he moved to Indiana without notifying the Florida Board of Nursing.
The Florida Board of Nursing has not publicly detailed next steps and did not respond to requests for comment, while Uthmeier said he had "paged" the board and further action remained possible, officials said.
Analysis
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Sources (3)
FAQ
Erik Martindale posted that he would not perform anesthesia for any surgeries or procedures for MAGA supporters, stating it was his right, ethical oath, and that he owns his businesses and can refuse anyone.
Erik Martindale voluntarily relinquished his Florida registered nurse license, listed by the Florida Department of Health as 'voluntary relinquishment,' which is not considered discipline.
Martindale claimed his Facebook, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram accounts were hacked and that he did not author the original post.
Uthmeier announced that Martindale relinquished his license and stated 'Healthcare is not contingent on political beliefs,' while noting he paged the Florida Board of Nursing for possible further action.
Yes, Lexie Lawler, a Boca Raton nurse, had her license action pursued after a video wishing harm to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt during childbirth.
History
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