Dr. Anthony Fauci clashed with Ohio Rep. Jim Jordan (R) at a House subcommittee hearing on Friday over whether the government should crack down on protests to curb the spread of COVID-19.
Jordan, one of President Donald Trump’s biggest defenders on Capitol Hill, repeatedly asked Fauci to weigh in on whether widespread protests helped to spread COVID-19.
Fauci said that in general, large crowds, particularly those including people who aren’t wearing masks, contribute to higher infection and transmission rates. “Should the government limit the protesting?” Jordan asked. “I don’t think that’s relevant,” Fauci said, adding, “I’m not in a position to determine what the government can do in a forceful way.” Jordan pressed Fauci, saying, “You