Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis., has released text messages obtained from Dr. Anthony Fauci's former government phone, alleging that the former chief medical advisor to the president privately expressed concerns that early COVID-19 vaccinations could pose risks to pregnant women, including potential miscarriages.
Johnson, who chairs the Senate Homeland Security Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, stated that these messages, sent in January 2021, indicate a discrepancy between Fauci's private communications and his public statements regarding vaccine safety for pregnant individuals. The texts were part of a larger investigation into Fauci's tenure.
In the messages, Fauci reportedly wrote to then-CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky and future Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, "I asked around a bit more and another issue came up that you need to be aware of. Since many people have significant cytokines storm and fever after the 2nd dose, this theoretically could be associated with miscarriage in the 1st trimester."
Johnson described this admission as "truly sick," contrasting it with public health guidance that often advised pregnant women against consuming alcohol. He suggested that the public was not adequately informed about such potential risks.
Citing a June 2021 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine by Dr. Tom Shimabukoro, Johnson claimed that the data showed a high rate of spontaneous abortions among women vaccinated in the first or second trimester. He asserted that the study's presentation skewed the miscarriage rate, interpreting the data to suggest an 82% miscarriage rate for women vaccinated in the first two trimesters, a conclusion disputed by health officials.
Johnson indicated that this release is only the beginning of his investigation into Fauci's communications, with a focus on uncovering further instances where private sentiments may have differed from public pronouncements. He stated that his office is proceeding with caution to avoid releasing personal information, prioritizing communications relevant to public safety and informed consent.
Fauci's legal representation did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The investigation into Fauci's phone and communications is ongoing.