Anthony Fauci’s attorney, David Schertler, has responded to criticisms from NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who called the former federal health official an "absolute coward" during an appearance on "The Pat McAfee Show." Rodgers’ remarks stemmed from Fauci’s invocation of the Fifth Amendment 111 times during a recent Senate hearing.
Schertler, a former federal prosecutor, stated that Rodgers "doesn't know what he's talking about" and "should stick to football." The exchange comes after Fauci, during testimony before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, declined to answer questions related to his personal diary and pandemic-related policy decisions. The hearing, chaired by Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., focused on Fauci's role and decisions during the COVID-19 pandemic, including allegations of funding gain-of-function research in Wuhan, China.
Rodgers had criticized Fauci's repeated use of the Fifth Amendment, questioning his scientific credentials and accountability. "Are you kidding me? You get a pardon, and you’re and you pleaded over 100 times at the White House? What are you scared of, Tony? I thought you were the science. ‘I am science,’ and you get up there and can’t answer a question? What are we doing?" Rodgers said.
The Steelers organization, when asked for comment, acknowledged that political and cultural discussions can bring differing perspectives and that players are entitled to their own views. "With respect to that, I am certain there are a variety of opinions on many topics within our locker room," a Steelers spokesman said.
Fauci served as chief medical advisor to both President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden during the COVID-19 pandemic. His decision to invoke the Fifth Amendment has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and public figures, while his legal team maintains he acted on advice of counsel.