In a recent interview with USA Today, Anthony Fauci, the Italian-American virologist who led the White House response to the Covid epidemic, revealed that he still harbors a fear that someone could kill him. Despite wishing he didn’t have to think about it, he acknowledges the truth of this possibility.
Fauci became a target for extremists due to his prominent role in the pandemic response, receiving numerous death threats as a result. Far-right groups have singled him out for their attacks, making him a focal point of their vitriol. In 2022, a man from West Virginia was sentenced to over three years in prison for the threats he made against Fauci.
Reflecting on the situation, Fauci lamented how the pandemic unfolded amidst deep societal divisions, exacerbating the challenges he faced. The unfortunate reality of being a public figure in such tumultuous times is the heightened risk of becoming a target for those with extreme views. Despite the threats he has endured, Fauci remains dedicated to his work in combatting infectious diseases and providing guidance to the public.
