Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, provides a personal glimpse into his experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic through newly released diary entries. Released by Senate Homeland Security Committee Chairman Rand Paul, these entries cover Fauci’s interactions with people ranging from political figures to celebrities.

A Look at Political Relationships

Early entries highlight Fauci’s positive rapport with President Trump. Trump frequently sought Fauci’s advice during meetings, commending him as ‘the smartest person in the world.’ As Fauci’s public profile grew, Trump showed admiration towards him. However, Fauci’s relationship with White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows grew tense. Meadows threatened to limit Fauci’s television exposure and repeatedly tried to moderate Fauci’s public statements.

Despite this, Fauci noted a supportive ally in Alyssa Farah, the former White House Communications Director, who acknowledged Fauci’s challenges with media appearances and promised support.

Media and Public Interactions

Fauci described challenging moments with other officials. He labeled Michael Caputo, then HHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, as unreliable due to Caputo’s contradictory stance on Fauci’s media presence.

Fauci often mentioned CNN anchor Jake Tapper, recalling their calls, texts, and dinners at Tapper’s home. Tapper privately ensured Fauci that interviews did not cause issues with the White House.

In one instance, Fauci responded to a suggestion by The Atlantic’s Peter Nicholas about alleged humiliation over a canceled interview: ‘F— you, Peter.’

Fauci described exchanges with CNN’s Dana Bash and Wolf Blitzer, showing the media’s supportive side during tense moments, such as interactions with Rep. Jim Jordan.

Celebrity Interactions

Beyond politics and media, Fauci’s diaries reveal interactions with various public figures. Julia Roberts hosted Fauci live on Instagram, sent him flowers, and presented him an award. Other mentions include Vogue’s Anna Wintour, comedian Trevor Noah, NBA’s Steph Curry, Sean Penn, Matt Damon, and rapper Lil Wayne, highlighting Fauci’s rising celebrity profile.

An intriguing encounter concludes the diary. At the 2022 Kennedy Center Honors, Fauci hugged Hunter Biden. Biden joked about the potential online reaction to their photo due to shared political challenges.

Fauci’s entries offer a unique view into his professional and personal world amidst the nation’s struggle with COVID-19.