Fauci Denies Suppressing COVID Lab Leak Theory, NIH Gain-of-Function Research Amid Intense Congressional Grilling

Jun 3, 2024, 04:50 PM

Dr. Anthony Fauci faced intense questioning from Rep. Nicole Malliotakis and Rep. Jim Jordan regarding the alleged suppression of the lab leak theory of COVID-19's origin. Fauci firmly denied any involvement in downplaying the theory, calling such claims 'preposterous' and 'farfetched,' including the idea that he was 'parachuted into the CIA like Jason Bourne.' He emphasized that he has kept an open mind throughout the entire process. Fauci also refuted accusations of influencing scientists to dismiss the lab leak theory and denied that the NIH funded gain-of-function research related to COVID-19. Additionally, Fauci acknowledged that U.S. tax dollars did flow through a grant recipient to a lab in China but insisted this had no connection to downplaying the lab leak theory.