Rand Paul Accuses Fauci and NIH of Cover-Up

Senator's Accusations

Republican Senator Rand Paul recently accused Anthony Fauci and other health officials of an "extensive cover-up" during the COVID-19 pandemic. The senator's allegations are based on a series of emails exchanged between Fauci and his former senior adviser, Dr. David Morens. These emails were obtained by the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic via a subpoena.

Allegations of Federal Records Violations

The subcommittee suggested that the emails indicate Fauci was aware of Morens' questionable behavior and may have been involved in violations of federal records himself. Paul, in a Fox News interview, claimed these emails were an indication of inappropriate actions and stated that "the cover-up is the crime."

Claims of Conspiracy to Silence Dissenting Voices

Paul referred to an email from Francis Collins, former Director at the NIH, which expressed a desire to discredit scientists with differing opinions on the origin of COVID-19. He described the email as a call to "take down these scientists that disagree with us."

Alleged Attempts to Evade the Freedom of Information Act

Paul also pointed to emails discussing "back channels" of communication, implying the use of private email addresses to evade the Freedom of Information Act. He likened these actions to those of a criminal organization, stating, "It really sounds like a mob hit. It sounds like the mob talking."

Accusations of Evidence Tampering

The senator further claimed that the emails show Fauci and his colleagues were actively working to delete evidence. One email from Morens allegedly discussed seeking help from IT and FOIA personnel on "how to make emails disappear." Paul called this action "in all likelihood a crime."

Call for Legal Action

Paul called for a prosecutor to investigate these allegations, suggesting that the individuals involved might tell the truth if faced with prosecution. He also accused the NIH of refusing to provide him with requested documents for over two years, describing the situation as an "unprecedented" cover-up.

Morens' Testimony

In his testimony, Morens claimed that his correspondence with Daszak and others was not government business and that they had received death threats in early 2020. Despite admitting to deleting emails and using private accounts in the correspondence, Morens stated that he could not recall conducting official government communication via personal addresses.

Allegations of Financial Misconduct

In another email exchange with Daszak, Morens jokingly asked for a "kickback" for his role in assisting on a $7.5 million grant awarded to EcoHealth Alliance. The subcommittee described this action as "highly concerning" and "likely illegal."

Upcoming Testimony

Fauci is scheduled to testify before Congress on June 3.

What Do You Think?

This is a complex issue with serious allegations being made. What's your take on Senator Paul's accusations against Fauci and the NIH? Please share this article with your friends and encourage them to join the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered every day at 6pm.