The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hearing with Anthony Fauci began amid disruptions, as Senator Rand Paul ordered one of Fauci’s attorneys removed after repeated disturbances.
During the session, Fauci declined to answer questions from Paul, citing the Fifth Amendment, while his lawyer remained seated and continued to speak without recognition.
Paul warned the lawyer that noncompliance would result in removal, describing the conduct as disruptive and likening it to courtroom behavior that could lead to incarceration.
Ranking Member Gary Peters interjected, yet Paul reiterated that the hearing focused on Fauci, not his legal counsel.
Paul emphasized that the attorneys could advise Fauci but were not recognized as witnesses, noting that the lawyer had been instructed to sit in a designated area.
After repeated refusal to comply, Paul requested security to escort the lawyer from the room, and the attorney was removed.
Paul noted that Fauci would retain the counsel of the remaining attorneys present.
The hearing concluded with a reminder that a presidential pardon does not shield Fauci from potential congressional testimony violations.
