Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former top U.S. infectious disease expert, faced intense questioning from Republican lawmakers regarding the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Republican-led subcommittee has been investigating the nation's pandemic response and the potential role of U.S.-funded research in China in the outbreak.
Democrats stated that the investigation has not found any evidence of wrongdoing by Fauci but highlighted missed opportunities to prepare for future outbreaks. Fauci, who served over five decades in government, faced questioning in a public hearing for the first time since leaving office.
The focus of the inquiry is on the origins of the virus, with many scientists believing it likely emerged from animals to humans at a wildlife market in Wuhan. While some theories suggest a laboratory leak, there is no new scientific evidence supporting this claim. A U.S. intelligence analysis remains inconclusive, and Chinese government actions have hindered efforts to trace the virus's source.
Republicans have accused Fauci of misleading Congress regarding funding for 'gain of function' research in Wuhan. The NIH provided grants to EcoHealth Alliance, a nonprofit working with a Chinese lab studying coronaviruses. Fauci clarified that the research did not involve creating the virus responsible for the pandemic.
Regarding public records, Fauci denied conducting official business via personal email. Throughout the pandemic, Fauci played a prominent role in advising both the Trump and Biden administrations, helping develop vaccines that facilitated a return to normalcy.
The House panel will also question Fauci on the scientific basis for public health measures like social distancing. The hearing aims to shed light on the pandemic's origins and the government's response under Fauci's leadership.
