During a tense Senate hearing, a committee voted to hold Dr. Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress for pleading the Fifth Amendment, according to NBC News and corroborated by CNN, the Washington Post, the New York Times, ABC News, and the South China Morning Post.
The motion followed Fauci’s refusal to answer questions about COVID‑19 guidance, a stance that prompted subpoenas from three state attorneys general. The vote was carried by the committee, marking the first time a high‑profile public health official has been formally held in contempt.
A contempt finding can lead to court enforcement actions, including fines or imprisonment, underscoring the seriousness of the Senate’s decision.