Trump’s Attacks Against Fauci

As the election is upon us, President Donald Trump ramps up his attacks against Anthony Fauci. Tensions rise in regards to the nation’s top infectious disease doctor as the COVID-19 pandemic rages across the country.

Trump’s rally located in Opa-Locka, Florida, persisted long past midnight and well into Monday morning. Trump suggested he might fire Fauci after the election on Nov. 3. This was followed by his supporters chanting, “Fire Fauci.” Trump’s response to the crowd was, “He’s a nice man, but he’s been wrong a lot.”

According to The New York Times, 231,000 people have died from this infectious disease and cases in numerous states are beginning to surge. However, Trump’s strategy for months has been to downplay the virus and maintain that the U.S, is, “turning a corner.” The Hill states, “Surveys consistently show that Americans disapprove of Trump’s handling of the pandemic, and his comments about Fauci less than forty-eight hours before Election Day are sure to keep the issue front and center as voters head to the polls.”

Fauci and Trump’s relationship throughout the pandemic has been complex. Trump’s attacks became more frequent after The Washington Post’s interview with Fauci. In the interview, Fauci seemed to favor presidential nominee Joe Biden’s plan to combat the pandemic. He described how Biden “is taking it seriously from a public health perspective,” while President Trump is “looking at it from a different perspective” by focusing on “the economy and reopening the country.” In the past few months, Fauci has become outspoken since it is clear Trump is no longer listening to his advice. These attacks could be significant in swaying voter opinions as the election draws nearer.