As a resignation gift to Fauci, Paul promised to carry on with his investigations into the doctor's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and claims that he "funneled tax dollars to fund dangerous research in communist China." The senator explained that preserving Fauci documents is critical for his investigation of the doctor.
"I formally request you to ensure the preservation of all documents and communications within Dr. Fauci's possession related to his tenure at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This information is critical to ensure that Congress has access to information necessary to conduct proper oversight," Paul wrote in a letter to Lawrence Tabak, acting director of the NIH, as reported by the Daily Caller.
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Fauci, 81, said Monday that he will be stepping down after 38 years of service as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and his comparatively short tenure as chief medical adviser to President Joe Biden in December. NIAID operates under NIH.
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For nearly two years, Paul has appeared as a leading opponent of Fauci, often slamming him in famous debates in Senate hearings. They have fought over COVID-19 measures and vaccines, the virus's origins, and gain-of-function research.
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Fauci has accused Paul of deceiving the public, playing political games, and kindling the "crazies." But Paul has been undeterred. Other Republicans seem keen on continuing to scrutinize Fauci despite his departure from the government.
House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-CA) left the door open to subpoenaing Fauci if Republicans retake the lower chamber after the midterm elections.
Fauci has been stubborn that he has “nothing to hide.”
“I believe that oversight is an important part of the government process. Some of the things that have gone on have been outright character assassination. That’s not oversight,” he told Fox News's Neil Cavuto on Tuesday. “So if they want to get into legitimate dignified oversight, I’d be more than happy to do that.”
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The doctor added, "While I am moving on from my current positions, I am not retiring," and he teased that he will focus on the next phase of his career to further scientific advancement.
Fauci is expected to step down in December, marking the end of 38 years in his director role and over a 50-year career in government services.
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Fauci said in his statement that while he is leaving his current role, he is not retiring, instead focusing on the next phase of his career to “advance science and public health and to inspire the next generation of scientific leaders.”
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