Trump administration needs to stop 'public harassment' of Fauci and scientists
12 hours ago
- Over 155 scientists, physicians, and public health advocates published an open letter condemning the Trump administration and its allies for vilifying and harassing American scientists, particularly Anthony Fauci.
- The letter, released before Fauci's congressional testimony under subpoena, dismisses allegations against him as 'baseless,' including claims he covered up COVID-19 origins or suppressed information.
- Fauci, who led NIAID for 38 years and guided the U.S. response to HIV, COVID-19, Ebola, SARS, and anthrax, is accused by Senator Rand Paul of misleading the public, but signatories argue no credible evidence supports these charges.
- The letter highlights a five-year period of harassment and threats against Fauci and his family, and urges Congress to stop what it calls 'witch-hunts' and support sound public health and scientific practices.
- Paul released thousands of pages of Fauci's pandemic-era diaries ahead of the hearing, while Fauci maintains an open mind about COVID-19 origins, including a possible lab leak, despite denying efforts to suppress that theory.
- Joe Biden issued a pre-emptive pardon to Fauci before Trump returned to office, but Paul has referred Fauci to the Department of Justice for potential criminal prosecution.