Anthony Fauci appeared before the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs, chaired by Senator Rand Paul, on July 29, 2026, where he invoked the Fifth Amendment over 100 times. This move has drawn significant criticism from Republicans.

In response, Representative Rich McCormick (R-Ga.) introduced the STOP the SWAMP Act, a bill that would bar individuals from federal government employment if they refuse to answer certain questions from federal lawmakers or if convicted of perjury. The legislation could prevent Fauci from returning to his previous federal duties and potentially expose him to criminal prosecution.

McCormick commented in a video shared with Fox News Digital, "We saw him evade so many questions, pleading the Fifth... that's fine, that's your constitutional right. But you also have the right, if your till comes up short at Burger King, when your boss asks you why are you short $20 in your cash register — if you plead the Fifth, that's your... ability, but I can fire you. It should be the same way in government. If you don't want to answer questions about what you did wrong, we should be able to fire you."

Senator Rand Paul is also seeking contempt charges against Fauci following the hearing.

Sources