House Judiciary Chairman Jim Jordan (R-OH) has set his sights on Dr. Anthony Fauci, accusing the former Chief Medical Advisor to President Biden of providing false testimony during his June 3 appearance before the Oversight Committee’s Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic. In a scathing letter, Jordan alleges that Fauci contradicted himself regarding his stance on the COVID-19 lab leak theory and his involvement in suppressing information related to the virus’ origins.
As chair of both the Judiciary Committee and the Select Subcommittee on the Weaponization of the Federal Government, Jordan is investigating how and to what extent the Executive Branch has coerced or colluded with companies and intermediaries to censor Americans’ speech. Given Fauci’s role with the COVID-19 Response Team, Jordan believes he has relevant information to share.
The letter minces no words, asserting that Fauci’s claim of having “kept an open mind” about the lab leak theory and not playing a part in downplaying it is “false on its face.” Jordan points to internal Facebook communications that reveal the social media platform censored the lab leak theory due to “pressure” from the Biden White House, particularly the Response Team, of which Fauci was a member.
Moreover, the letter cites recent reporting from the Coronavirus Select Subcommittee suggesting that Fauci may have taken part in a conspiracy to “destroy” or “hide” official records regarding the origins of COVID-19, including by conducting official business on his personal email and deleting official records to avoid FOIA requests and public disclosure.
Jordan has demanded that Fauci produce communications with the Executive Branch regarding the suppression of information and internal communications from NIAID regarding the deletion of content. He also insists that Fauci appear for a transcribed interview before the Committee and review any materials produced to refresh his recollection, as during a previous deposition, Fauci stated “I do not recall,” “I don’t remember,” or variations thereof at least 212 times.
While some may view the letter as another instance of a “sternly worded” missive, it is a crucial first step in the process that could lead to a subpoena. Although the GOP’s enforcement capabilities are limited with a Biden-controlled DOJ, the information uncovered during the 118th Congress has been significant. The onus is now on Fauci to respond to Jordan’s demands and provide the requested information and testimony, or face potential consequences.
