Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier announced that his office is investigating former National Institutes of Health Director Dr. Anthony Fauci for potential fraud, deceptive trade practices, and public nuisance related to COVID-19 policies. Uthmeier stated that the probe aims to seek truth and accountability, using "every tool under Florida law."
Despite Dr. Fauci receiving a full and unconditional pardon from former President Joe Biden for actions taken between January 1, 2014, and January 19, 2025, Uthmeier clarified that this pardon does not extend to state-level prosecution. "I don't know why you need a pardon if you didn't do anything wrong," Uthmeier said.
Dr. Fauci invoked his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination more than 100 times during a recent congressional hearing. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee voted to charge him with contempt following his refusal to answer questions from lawmakers.
Uthmeier indicated that the investigation will examine whether Dr. Fauci engaged in self-dealing or profited from COVID-era policies. "If he is making money on the side while perpetrating this fraud, there could very well be criminal liability," Uthmeier commented, while also noting that criminal wrongdoing has not yet been established and the investigation is currently focused on civil claims alongside potential criminal aspects.
Florida is coordinating with multiple other states in demanding accountability for federal healthcare decisions and mandates implemented during the pandemic. The attorney general expressed that "the American people still have a lot of questions, especially Floridians," and that Dr. Fauci's actions during the pandemic had severe consequences for many.