The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee held a hearing on Wednesday, featuring Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former NIAID director and key figure in the US COVID response. Fauci appeared under subpoena, marking a significant moment in the ongoing investigation into the government's handling of the pandemic.
Dr. Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment in his opening statement, refusing to answer questions about his actions and the many lies he told the American public. This move has sparked outrage among lawmakers, who view it as a blatant attempt to avoid accountability.
Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) was particularly vocal in his criticism of Fauci, accusing him of prioritizing his celebrity status over the welfare of the American people. Moreno called Fauci's actions a "total disgrace," and questioned why his Democratic colleagues were defending him.
Moreno also took the opportunity to educate Fauci on the US Constitution, handing him a copy and asking if he knew what the Fifth Amendment said. Fauci's response, a scripted phrase given to him by his attorneys, fell flat with the senator.
When asked to turn and look at the many Americans he had hurt with his lockdowns, vaccine mandates, and mask mandates, Fauci refused to meet their gaze. Moreno's response was scathing: "What a disgrace."
As the hearing drew to a close, Senator Rand Paul announced that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee would hold a vote to hold Dr. Fauci in contempt for refusing to answer questions. This move is likely to further escalate tensions between Fauci and lawmakers, who are increasingly frustrated with his attempts to avoid accountability.
