Dr. Fauci Testifies Before Congress on COVID-19 Pandemic

Republican lawmakers question his handling of the pandemic

Fauci defends his record, urging caution in lifting restrictions

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In his first public testimony since stepping down from government office, Dr. Anthony Fauci fended off attacks from Republican lawmakers over his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, appeared before a House committee to discuss his role in the pandemic response. Republicans on the committee accused Fauci of downplaying the severity of the virus and being too slow to recommend mask-wearing and lockdowns.

Fauci defended his record, saying that he always followed the science and that his recommendations were based on the best available evidence at the time. He also urged caution in lifting restrictions, warning that the virus is still circulating and could cause another surge in cases.