Baric Transcribed Interview (Redacted) — page 6

DC.Scheduling@LexitasLegal.com P R O C E E D I N G S MR. KAZENOFF: Good morning. This is a voluntary, closed-door transcribed interview of Dr. Ralph Baric, being conducted by the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. This interview was requested by Committee Chairman Rand Paul as part of the committee's oversight investigation on government funding of risky research and the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 18, 2026, the witness agreed to appear before the committee on April 10, 2026. For the record, during the transcribed interview the committee will be bound solely by Senate and Committee rules. We will adhere to them. Do you understand? DR. BARIC: I agree, but I don't know what the Senate rules are. MR. ERVIN: We've reviewed them. DR. BARIC: I figured you all know, right. MR. KAZENOFF: You are here voluntarily. Nevertheless, under Title 18 Section 1001 you are required to answer questions from Congress truthfully, including questions posed by congressional staff during this interview. Do you understand? DR. BARIC: I do. MR. KAZENOFF: Is there any reason that you would be unable to provide us today with truthful answers to our