Connecticut teacher resigns after viral video threatening Trump supporters sparks backlash

A special education teacher in Connecticut has resigned from her position after her video went viral in which she appeared to make violent threats about the outcome of the presidential election, sparking significant public outrage.
The social media footage showed Annie Dunleavy, who taught at Chapman Elementary School, making threatening remarks to supporters of President-elect Donald Trump. In the video, she said anyone who tried to “test” her would “end up on a stretcher, gone forever” and advised Trump supporters to remove her from their social media.
Local news outlet WTNH reported her subsequent resignation, expressing remorse over the video post. In her statement to WTNH, Dunleavy explained that she acted in an emotional moment and her intended message about self-defense against potential violence against women was misconstrued.
The incident caused considerable disruption in the Cheshire community, with Superintendent Jeffrey Solan reports in a press release to WTNH and CTInsider that the district received several inquiries from people outside the local area.
According to local media, Solan confirmed that the video was shared on the teacher’s private Snapchat account, and she was initially placed on temporary leave pending investigations.
Cheshire Police acknowledged their knowledge of the viral video and launched an investigation. NBC Connecticut reported that authorities confirmed Thursday that no criminal charges would be filed against Dunleavy.
The question was raised at a municipal council meeting. Amy Bourdon, a parent and Trump volunteer, characterized the video as “a death threat” against WTNH and expressed concern about an employee receiving payment from the Cheshire township. Another resident, Lori Barnes, expressed reluctance to enroll her grandson in the district if the teacher remained employed.
On November 12, Republican State Senator Rob Sampson issued a statement condemning the video and sent a letter to Superintendent Solan calling for immediate action and stressing that such behavior was unacceptable in Cheshire Public Schools.
After Dunleavy’s resignation, Solan released a statement distancing the school district from the teacher’s remarks, describing them as “hurtful” and “deeply troubling.” He emphasized the right of students and families to attend school without fear of political prejudice or security concerns.