Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) criticized Dr. Anthony Fauci for not answering questions during a Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs hearing on July 29, 2026. Fauci invoked his Fifth Amendment rights multiple times, including during Hawley's inquiries, despite having received a blanket pardon from former President Joe Biden. Committee Chairman Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) announced intentions to vote on holding Fauci in contempt of Congress for his refusal to testify.
Hawley posed questions to Fauci, including simple ones like the color of his tie, which Fauci declined to answer, citing his constitutional rights. Hawley expressed frustration that Fauci was willing to participate in an interview with In-Style Magazine while refusing to respond to Congress. He accused Fauci of profiting from his public health role and using government resources to apply for cash awards.
Fauci defended his decision to plead the Fifth, attributing it to what he described as Paul's obsession with him. He stated that his refusal to answer questions was based on legal advice and his respect for the legislative branch.