Senators Vote to Hold Anthony Fauci in Contempt of Congress

Why it matters locally: While a national story, the contempt vote concerning a former high-ranking federal official who regularly testified before Congress has a direct connection to the ongoing work of the federal government, a primary employer and economic driver in the District of Columbia.

---

WASHINGTON – Senators have voted to hold Anthony Fauci in contempt of Congress. The vote occurred following Fauci's testimony last week, during which he invoked his Fifth Amendment right more than 100 times in response to senators' questions. This action by the senators follows a period of scrutiny from Republican lawmakers. These lawmakers have previously raised questions regarding Fauci's past roles and decisions. During the recent hearing, Fauci exercised his constitutional right to decline answering certain questions. This invocation prompted the subsequent contempt vote by the Senate. Lawmakers stated the vote reflected their view that Fauci had not adequately cooperated with their inquiry.