‘MAGA Dentist‘ Faces Backlash After Alleging Bias in Patient Care
A California dentist is facing criticism and potential legal consequences after admitting she makes jokes about political affiliations with patients and once “wished” Democratic patients had “stayed home with their masks on” during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Manpreet Grewal, who promotes herself as the “MAGA Dentist” at her practice, Skyline Smiles, made the comments during a Republican roast speech two years ago, according to her own statements.
Grewal reportedly described patients reacting with alarm to pictures of former President Donald Trump in her office, stating, “I have patients who come into my office, and when they see the pictures, its like their buttS on fire. they jump up and bolt as if Trump himself were entering the room.” She also allegedly jokes about political opinions when patients question the cost of treatment.
Identifying as a California GOP delegate and member of local conservative groups, Grewal defended her remarks as free speech and jokes. “I think America is a free country, it’s free speech.no one is directly getting harmed from it. I’m making a joke. We all make jokes. I’m sure the Democrats get in a room and make jokes about Republicans too,” she said. She added,”Peopel should take light of the situation,relax,chill,it’s not that big of a deal to just make a joke every now and then.”
The comments have sparked outrage online, with some individuals reporting Grewal to the California Dental Board and others leaving negative reviews alleging discriminatory treatment based on political views.
Civil rights attorney James desimone warned that such actions could have legal ramifications. ”It is indeed against the law to discriminate against someone based on their political beliefs. When you have a dentist who says she’s deliberately treating you differently as of your political beliefs, there doesn’t seem to be anything funny about that,” he stated.
Rebecca Hindman, who runs the page Rise Up SCV, criticized Grewal’s behavior as representing both herself and her business.critics also argue that joking about causing pain as a dentist is unprofessional and could deter patients from seeking necesary care.