Dr. Anthony Fauci expressed strong views about former President Donald Trump in his personal diary during the COVID-19 pandemic. Fauci, who served as the nation’s leading infectious disease expert, remarked in the diary that Trump was a ‘true embarrassment’ and ‘out of control.’
As Fauci gained media fame, his frustration with Trump’s handling of the pandemic grew. The diary entries, released by Senator Rand Paul, cover the period from December 2019 to August 2022. Fauci often criticized Trump for disregarding scientific advice in favor of political goals, particularly in his efforts to reopen the country before the 2020 election.
“Trump getting out of control in pushing to open up the country and get the economy back before election day,” Fauci wrote on May 22, 2020. “He is desperate. This is all about re-election.”
Fauci and Trump initially worked closely, with Fauci often speaking at White House press briefings. However, their relationship deteriorated as Trump publicly questioned Fauci’s credibility. A July 28, 2020, entry detailed Fauci’s perception of Trump’s erratic behavior.
“The POTUS is playing a weird game of acting Okay with me in person and saying that our relationship is fine to the press and then retweeting stuff that attacks me,” Fauci wrote.
Key disagreements included Trump’s dismissal of rising COVID-19 case numbers, which Trump attributed to increased testing. Fauci noted a lack of consistent messaging from the White House about his public appearances.
During an intense period in September 2020, Fauci described a call with Trump where the president objected to Fauci’s tone during an interview. Even though the call ended amicably, Trump signaled his disapproval of further public comment.
Trump responded to Fauci’s criticisms, stating that he opposed completely shutting down the country, contrary to Fauci’s advice. He accused Fauci of changing his guidance on masks. Despite these tensions, Fauci continued as the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases until resigning in late 2022.
Fauci also noted the heavy media attention he received, including numerous stories and profiles that elevated his public profile.
“Press still hot and heavy about me,” he wrote on April 7, 2020.
Fauci’s criticism of Trump extended beyond pandemic issues. After the presidential debate on September 29, 2020, Fauci described it as a ‘horrible s–t show’ and criticized Trump’s behavior as bullying and inappropriate.
He also accused Trump of divisive actions, such as stoking racial tensions and embracing conspiracy theories. In a diary entry from June 2021, Fauci mentioned ongoing political attacks against him led by figures like House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy.