Biden’s NIH nominee questioned on COVID-19 origins probe

Sen. Mike Braun Grills NIH Director Nominee on COVID-19 Investigation

During a heated hearing, Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN) ‌interrogated ⁣Monica Bertagnolli, President Joe Biden’s nominee for director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), about her commitment to cooperate with⁤ the House of Representatives investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 ​pandemic.

“I can reassure you that I take Congress’s responsibility for oversight for the NIH ⁢and, if confirmed, my responsibility as director ‍of NIH⁤ to be​ compliant regarding that oversight extremely seriously,” said Bertagnolli.

Bertagnolli, currently serving as the director of the National Cancer Institute at‌ NIH, was nominated by Biden in May for her ‍exceptional work on the president’s “Cancer Moonshot” ​initiative.

The Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee finally held ‍the confirmation hearing for‍ Bertagnolli after Chairman Bernie Sanders (I-VT) delayed health-related confirmations until the Biden administration addressed⁢ the issue of high prescription drug⁣ prices.

During⁣ the hearing, Braun specifically questioned Bertagnolli about her willingness to cooperate with the House Select⁢ Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic, which is investigating David Morens, a top aide to Anthony Fauci,​ the former head of the ⁢National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.

The⁤ subcommittee’s investigation into Morens began in June when it discovered emails revealing that he used his personal email account for official NIH business to avoid scrutiny. Morens even admitted to deleting unfavorable ​information to prevent it from reaching the‌ media.

After the subcommittee’s requests for information went unanswered, they issued a subpoena to acting NIH Director Lawrence Tabak. The subpoena demanded details of⁢ the agency’s internal investigation into Morens’s conduct.

In response to Braun’s questioning, Bertagnolli⁣ pledged to be accountable, transparent, and work with Congress to address these crucial issues if confirmed. She also assured the committee that she had ⁢never communicated with Morens ⁣and would never use a personal email address for NIH ​business.

Throughout the hearing, Bertagnolli emphasized her commitment to collaborating with Congress to improve medical and health ⁣outcomes through research.

Acting NIH Director Lawrence⁣ Tabak has been serving in his role for almost a year since former Director Francis Collins stepped down. Both ‍Tabak and Collins are scheduled for voluntary transcribed interviews with the select subcommittee on COVID-19 ‍origins in early December.

Click here to read more from The Washington Examiner.

‍ How does Monica Bertagnolli plan⁢ to address the ‍allegations of withholding information by the NIH and provide ⁣more ‍accountability in the investigation into the COVID-19 pandemic?

He study and treatment of cancer. However, the focus of the hearing quickly⁤ shifted to the ongoing investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has become a ⁢highly contentious and politically charged topic.

Sen. Braun began the hearing by⁣ emphasizing the importance of​ understanding ⁤the ⁤origins of the virus and holding accountable⁢ any individuals or organizations that may have contributed to its spread. He expressed concern that the NIH had not been⁣ fully⁣ cooperative with the House investigation thus far, and questioned whether Bertagnolli would be willing⁣ to provide the ⁤necessary information and transparency.

In response, Bertagnolli emphasized her commitment to transparency and accountability. She acknowledged the importance of the investigation and emphasized that as the⁢ nominee for director of the NIH,⁤ she would ensure full cooperation with Congress and other relevant agencies. She stated⁤ unequivocally that she takes her responsibility ⁣for oversight‌ seriously and promised to provide any requested ⁣information to facilitate a thorough investigation.

Throughout the hearing, Sen. Braun pressed ⁢Bertagnolli on specific aspects of the investigation, including the funding of the Wuhan Institute of Virology and potential ties to gain-of-function research. While Bertagnolli was careful not to speculate on specific allegations, she ⁢reiterated her commitment to thoroughness and transparency in any investigation, including providing necessary ‍documentation and facilitating access ​to relevant ‌individuals and institutions.

The questioning became increasingly heated as Sen. Braun ​accused the NIH of withholding information and called for more accountability. He argued that‍ the American public deserves to know the truth about the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic in order to prevent future outbreaks and protect national security. Bertagnolli, however, maintained her stance⁤ of cooperation and highlighted the importance of scientific integrity and evidence-based decision-making.

The hearing underscored the deep divisions and strong emotions surrounding the investigation into the origins of COVID-19. Senators‍ from both parties expressed frustration and called for more transparency and‍ cooperation from the NIH. The outcome of‌ the ‌hearing remains to be seen, but it is evident that the issue will continue to‍ be a⁤ source of intense scrutiny and debate.

As the nomination process for Bertagnolli moves forward, it is crucial that her commitment ⁢to cooperation and‍ accountability be thoroughly​ assessed. The investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic is of utmost importance, not only for understanding​ past events but also ⁢for informing future ⁤public health strategies and ensuring the safety and well-being of the American ⁣people.

It is ⁤essential that ⁤the ‍NIH, under Bertagnolli’s potential leadership, prioritize transparency and provide all necessary information to support a thorough investigation. Regardless ‍of one’s political affiliation, the‌ pursuit of truth⁢ and scientific inquiry should be the guiding principle for all⁣ involved.

In conclusion, Sen. Mike Braun’s ⁤grilling of Monica⁢ Bertagnolli during the hearing for her nomination‌ as director of the NIH ‍shed light on the ongoing investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. While there are clear divisions and differing opinions, it is crucial⁣ that all parties prioritize transparency,⁤ cooperation, and the pursuit of ​truth. The American ​public deserves answers, and the ⁤nomination of Bertagnolli presents an​ opportunity ‍to ensure that the NIH is fully committed to providing those answers.

*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases