Corrine Baum, Ohio Teacher, Fired After Viral TikTok Video Appearing to Lament Trump Surviving White House Correspondents’ Dinner Shooting

An Ohio teacher has been fired after posting a viral TikTok video in which she appeared to express disappointment that former President Donald Trump survived a shooting incident near the White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner.

Corrine Baum, a preschool teacher at BrightPath’s Bridgetown Child Care Center in Cincinnati, was terminated after the video circulated widely across social media platforms, sparking backlash.

In the clip, Baum referenced online speculation about a potential major event, stating: “I wake up to that news, but not THAT news,” a comment widely interpreted as frustration that Trump was not killed.

Employer Responds, Confirms Termination

In a statement, BrightPath said Baum’s remarks were inconsistent with the organization’s values.

“Our organization does not tolerate and explicitly condemns any calls for violence,” a spokesperson said. “The comments made online by this individual are deeply inconsistent with our values. The individual in question has been terminated.”

The childcare provider emphasized its commitment to maintaining a safe and respectful environment.

Incident That Sparked Controversy

The video emerged shortly after a security incident near the Washington Hilton, where the high-profile dinner was being held.

Authorities said a suspect, identified as Cole Tomas Allen, was taken into custody after attempting to breach security. During the incident, a Secret Service agent was injured but survived. Officials confirmed that Trump, the First Lady, and attendees were not harmed.

Authorities have not publicly confirmed all details surrounding the incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Online Backlash and Broader Debate

Baum’s video quickly spread on platforms including TikTok and X, prompting criticism and calls for her dismissal. Some online commentators accused her of condoning political violence, particularly given her role as an educator.

BrightPath confirmed Baum’s employment at its Bridgetown location and reiterated that it does not condone violence of any kind.

A friend of Baum told local media she has been “very distraught” following the backlash and her termination.

Ongoing Discussion

The incident adds to a broader national conversation about educators’ use of social media and the boundaries between personal expression and professional responsibility.

Baum’s previously listed affiliation with The Children’s House—rebranded as BrightPath in 2023—has also been noted in reports, though her professional profiles appear to have since been removed.