In a hearing that lasted over three hours, Dr. Anthony Fauci testified before the House Oversight and Accountability Committee on the origins of COVID-19 and the federal response to the pandemic. The hearing aimed to shed light on the facts surrounding the virus and identify areas for improvement in future responses.

Chairman Brad Wenstrup of the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic opened the hearing by highlighting the need to learn from past mistakes and take a comprehensive approach to addressing the pandemic. He emphasized that the country missed an opportunity to treat the pandemic as a unifying force, but instead, it turned into a divisive political issue.

During the hearing, an audio recording of Dr. Fauci's interview with author Michael Specter for his audiobook, "Fauci," was played. In the recording, Dr. Fauci discussed the potential impact of mandates on increasing vaccination rates. He stated that when people face difficulties in their lives, they are more likely to overcome ideological objections and get vaccinated.

However, when asked later if all objections to the COVID-19 vaccine are considered "ideological bulls***," Dr. Fauci clarified that this was not his intention and acknowledged that objections to the vaccine can be based on a variety of factors.

Lawmakers also pressed Dr. Fauci on the effectiveness of vaccines in stopping the spread of the virus. He acknowledged that the first iteration of vaccines showed a limited effect in preventing infection and transmission. However, he pointed out that their durability in protecting against severe disease, hospitalization, and deaths was more prolonged.

Representative Kweisi Mfume raised allegations that Dr. Fauci colluded with the CIA to ensure the rampant spread of COVID-19 in the country. Dr. Fauci firmly denied these claims, stating that the last time he visited the CIA headquarters was years ago to discuss anthrax attacks and the possibility of a terrorist attack.

Additionally, Dr. Fauci cited a study suggesting that Americans who chose not to get vaccinated, for various reasons, may have contributed to an additional 200,000 to 300,000 deaths in the United States.

Representative Jim Jordan questioned Dr. Fauci about an alleged effort to downplay the lab leak theory for the origins of COVID-19. Dr. Fauci denied any personal involvement in downplaying the theory and reiterated that he has maintained an open mind throughout the investigation into the virus's origins.

Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene engaged in a contentious exchange with Dr. Fauci during her questioning. Refusing to refer to him as "doctor," she displayed visual aids in an attempt to challenge his credibility. Dr. Fauci maintained a professional demeanor and answered her questions directly.

Overall, the hearing provided an opportunity for Dr. Fauci to address concerns surrounding the origins of COVID-19 and the vaccine response. The committee aimed to gather facts to inform future decision-making and improve the country's approach to combating pandemics.