The Washington Post first reported Fauci’s
enhanced security, citing people with
knowledge of the situation at the Health and
Human Services and Justice departments. It
said Alex Azar, HHS secretary, grew concerned
about Fauci’s safety as his profile has risen. Fauci
is said to have received threats online and been
approached by admirers.
Asked Thursday if he felt safe, the 79-year-old
Fauci told NBC, “You know, I do. ... I’ve chosen
this life and I mean I know what it is. There are
things about it that are sometimes disturbing
but you just focus on the job you have to do and
just put all of that stuff aside and try as best as
possible not to pay attention to it.”
Reporters asked Fauci about his security detail
on Wednesday at the White House COVID-19
briefing. “Anything that has to do with security
detail, I’d have to have you refer that question to
the inspector general of HHS,” he said.
Trump then said Fauci doesn’t need security.
“Everybody loves him. Besides, they’d be in big
trouble if they ever attacked,” Trump said.