Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert and member of the White House coronavirus task force, is receiving support from Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R) amid reports of the White House trying to discredit him.
Appearing on ABC News’ “Powerhouse Politics” podcast, Hogan came to Fauci’s defense and acknowledged him as one of the most respected voices throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Hogan was asked what his view of Fauci is and the political and public health wisdom of White House officials and staffers currently “at war” with Fauci.
Hogan recognized Fauci’s credibility and criticized the Trump administration for attempting to dismantle it.
“I think it’s absolutely outrageous. It’s one of the biggest mistakes, I think, that the administration has made throughout this entire coronavirus response, because Dr. Fauci is, in my opinion, the most respected guy in the administration, and the voice of truth and reason throughout this pandemic,” Hogan said.
Listen to his comments below:
Hogan went on to double down on his respect for Fauci despite some of the mistakes he has made.
“I don’t think there’s anybody in America who has more credibility on this crisis than Dr. Anthony Fauci and there’s a number of mistakes that have been made, but I think sidelining him and trying to run this campaign to attack his credibility is one of their biggest mistakes so far,” Hogan said.
Fauci responded to comments made by the White House during an interview with the Atlantic on Wednesday, as IJR previously reported.
He called the attempts to discredit him “a bit bizarre” and said it is only hurting President Donald Trump in the long run.
As he left the White House on Wednesday, Trump was asked about an op-ed written by White House trade adviser Peter Navarro claiming Fauci has “been wrong about everything,” as IJR previously reported.
“Well, he made a statement representing himself. He shouldn’t be doing that,” Trump said.
He reiterated he has a “very good” relationship with Fauci.
