Former US public health official Anthony Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment during a Senate hearing chaired by Republican Senator Rand Paul, declining to answer questions about the COVID-19 response and the pandemic’s origins. Public health experts told NPR they fear the confrontational hearing could deter scientists and officials from entering government service or speaking candidly during future health crises, potentially weakening public trust and preparedness.

Paul, a longtime critic of Fauci, subpoenaed him and has accused him of misleading Congress about COVID-related research; Fauci has denied the allegations. Fauci said Paul’s campaign against him appeared aimed at securing his prosecution, while Paul said the committee would consider holding him in contempt; more than 150 scientists and infectious-disease experts reportedly defended Fauci and condemned the allegations.