Fauci’s Diary Reveals Strained Relations with Trump During Pandemic

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, recorded his candid thoughts about President Donald Trump in his diary during the COVID-19 pandemic. These entries illustrate Fauci’s frustrations and his unexpected rise to fame.

Senator Rand Paul, a critic of Fauci, released these diary excerpts before Fauci’s upcoming Senate testimony. The entries show Fauci’s concerns about Trump’s disregard for scientific advice in favor of reopening the economy before the 2020 election. Fauci described these actions as driven by political motives.

Fauci frequently criticized Trump for what he viewed as irresponsible behavior. On May 22, 2020, Fauci wrote, Trump getting out of control in pushing to open up the country and get the economy back before election day. He is desperate. As the election approached, Fauci noted the rise in COVID-19 cases, blaming Trump for ignoring medical advice.

Relationship Deterioration

The initial months of the pandemic saw Trump giving Fauci public support. However, their relationship soured as Trump began attacking Fauci’s credibility. On July 28, 2020, Fauci documented a strange dynamic with Trump, noting the president’s conflicting public and private attitudes.

Disagreements emerged over Fauci and Deborah Birx’s media appearances. On August 8, 2020, Fauci complained about the inconsistent message from the White House regarding his television interviews.

An entry from September 13, 2020, detailed a phone call from Trump where the president criticized Fauci’s media comments, exposing tensions in their differing views on public health measures.

Trump’s Response

On July 28, in an interview with Fox News, Trump responded to Fauci’s criticism, emphasizing his opposition to extensive lockdowns. Trump’s distrust of Fauci deepened due to discrepancies in the former director’s advice on mask usage.

Fauci, who retired in 2022, noted how media coverage during the pandemic made him a household name. His unexpected public attention affected his dynamic with Trump, who was reportedly conflicted about Fauci’s rising celebrity.

Further Criticisms

Fauci’s frustrations extended beyond COVID-19 to include Trump’s behavior during the presidential debates and his interactions with extremist groups. Fauci accused Trump of supporting harmful rhetoric and spreading misinformation.

In one entry, Fauci described the first presidential debate between Trump and Joe Biden as chaotic, accusing Trump of bullying and spreading falsehoods.

Fauci continued to voice concerns about Trump long after the 2020 election, criticizing right-wing political forces for their unwavering loyalty to Trump.