Protect Dr. Fauci From Threats and Retaliation

DRAW THE LINE AT THREATS AND HARASSMENT Dr. Anthony Fauci served the United States for more than 50 years. Whatever one thinks of his decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, no public servant or family should face threats, intimidation, or harassment. WHY THIS MATTERS NOW On August 6, a Senate committee voted to hold Dr. Fauci in contempt after he invoked the Fifth Amendment during a July 29 hearing. That dispute should be resolved through lawful procedures, without rhetoric or conduct that increases the danger to him or his family. OVERSIGHT IS ESSENTIAL Congress has both the right and the duty to investigate the federal pandemic response. Members should ask difficult questions, examine conflicting evidence, identify mistakes, and determine how the country can respond more effectively to the next public-health emergency. Dr. Fauci’s long service does not place him beyond scrutiny. At the same time, legitimate scrutiny should not become personal attacks unrelated to a fair examination of his conduct or create an atmosphere in which threats appear acceptable. Accountability and basic decency are not competing principles. Congress can uphold both. THE NATIONAL INTEREST How Congress treats controversial witnesses affects more than one hearing or individual. It tells physicians, scientists, military officers, and other professionals what they can expect if they enter public service and later become the subject of political controversy. If public service carries the risk that a person’s family will be threatened or disagreement will become personal destruction, such treatment will discourage capable Americans from serving. A BIPARTISAN STANDARD The standard should be the same regardless of party or ideology. Public officials must remain subject to searching questions and evidence-based criticism. They should also be protected from threats, intimidation, and retaliation unrelated to a fair examination of their conduct. Senators are especially well positioned to defend this distinction. A measured bipartisan statement would not settle disputes about pandemic policy. It would establish that those disputes must be pursued through evidence, lawful oversight, and civil debate. Please take these steps: (1) CONDEMN THREATS. Publicly condemn threats, intimidation, and harassment directed at Dr. Fauci or his family. (2) DEFEND OVERSIGHT. Affirm Congress’s authority to investigate pandemic decisions while rejecting personal abuse and unsupported accusations. (3) SUPPORT SAFETY. Support an objective assessment of continuing threats and appropriate protection when security professionals determine it is warranted. (4) URGE RESTRAINT. Encourage members of both parties to conduct hearings and public discussions with firmness, fairness, and respect. (5) PROTECT SERVICE. Support safeguards for federal employees and former officials facing credible threats arising from their public duties. Thank you.