US President Donald Trump has reportedly withdrawn D. Anthony Fauci’s security detail, previously funded by the National Institutes of Health, reports CNN citing source familiar with the matter.
Meanwhile, Fauchi, in response to persistent threats stemming from his public role during the Covid-19 pandemic, has arranged for private security at his own expense.
This action is part of Trump’s broader campaign against former officials who served in his administration. Similar security removals have affected former national security adviser John Bolton and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.
Earlier, Trump has expressed dissatisfaction regarding President Joe Biden’s pre-emptive pardon of Fauci before departing office.
“Even when individuals have done nothing wrong — and in fact have done the right thing — and will ultimately be exonerated, the mere fact of being investigated or prosecuted can irreparably damage reputations and finances,” said Biden.
Fauci’s government service spans decades, including 38 years as the nation’s leading infectious diseases expert. Despite Trump later claiming ignorance about the commendation’s origin, he granted presidential commendations to Fauci and 51 other Operation Warp Speed task force members during the Covid-19 pandemic.
