Newly released diary entries from former White House COVID-19 advisor Dr. Anthony Fauci have revealed instances of him building friendships with media figures and providing questions for interviews. The entries, released by Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., offer a glimpse into Fauci's interactions with journalists during the COVID-19 pandemic.
CNN anchor Jake Tapper is mentioned frequently in the diary, with one entry detailing Fauci providing Tapper with questions to ask during an interview with pediatrician Brett Giroir. Fauci wrote on July 24, 2020, that he "gave Jake some questions to ask" during an appearance on CNN's "State of the Union." Another entry from April 13, 2020, noted Tapper checking in on Fauci after an interview on his show had reportedly irked President Donald Trump supporters.
Fauci also documented social interactions with Tapper, writing on July 27, 2020, "Had dinner over Jake Tapper and Jen Tapper’s home in DC. Terrific couple. Friendship building." Later, on Oct. 23, 2020, Fauci wrote about having dinner at his own home with the Tappers, adding that Jake Tapper "clearly believes that Trump is totally nuts."
The diary entries also suggest connections with other media personalities. CNN's Dana Bash reportedly sent Fauci a supportive text message in April 2021 after a congressional hearing. According to Fauci's writing, Bash referenced a comment made by Wolf Blitzer and indicated that others felt Fauci had handled a difficult exchange with Rep. Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, with restraint.
Fauci also described a communication with then-NBC News host Chuck Todd, who had apparently texted Fauci to ask for his thoughts on a recent interview. Fauci stated he told Todd the interview was "terrific" and sought advice on how to respond to what he described as "slanderous attacks."
Additionally, the diary mentions an interaction with ABC's George Stephanopoulos. Following an interview on "Good Morning America" in July 2020, Stephanopoulos reportedly texted Fauci, "Thank you, Tony. So impressive," apparently in response to Fauci dismissing a tweet from President Trump.
Fauci also noted preparing CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jonathan LaPook for a TV appearance. In an entry, Fauci wrote that LaPook had e-mailed him over the weekend to prep for an interview on flu and HIV vaccines and subsequently mentioned Fauci multiple times during the broadcast.
Representatives for NBC News, ABC News, and CBS News did not immediately respond to requests for comment. A spokesperson for CNN declined to comment on the diary entries.