Tony's Diary Package — page 815

Typical e-mail from a supporter of me after the Rand Paul clash. One of dozens and dozens: Dear Dr. Fauci, I've wanted to write you at various points over the last year, but seeing the hideous treatment you received from Rand Paul played on the PBS "Newshour" last night has prompted me to wait no longer. My husband, Breck Montague, and I want to thank you from the bottoms of our hearts for the inimitable leadership, courage and wisdom you have shown since you've had to become a frequently called-upon national spokesperson for good health sense and public health during this pandemic. I am certain you remember my father, Frank Williams, during his time as director of NIA. I actually recall when you came on board at NIAID -- I believe my father marvelled about how you were perhaps the "youngest person ever" to assume an NIH directorship. If so, thank goodness you were, because here you still are, with the benefit of decades under your belt, at such a critical time. Thank you for telling Sen. Paul it was he who was lying -- and for not accepting his dangerous rhetoric. We were so proud of you! In our rural community, we do everything we can to support fact-based conversation and exchange of information. In such a disheartening period in this country's history, we're immensely grateful to have leaders such as you who speak out and act according to your beliefs. Keep it up, and please accept our support and thanks. Mary Williams Montague Gloucester, Virginia (8576 Toddsbury Lane Gloucester, VA 23061) Francis Collins defends me against Rand Paul nonsense on CNN and MSNBC tonight I visited Eric Lander (Director of OSTP) at the White House today. He asked for the meeting and wanted to do two things. First, he wanted to express his strong support for me in light of what just went down with senator Paul. Second, he wanted my help in trying to nail down the possibility of our getting much of the $30 billion that are still available from the JOBS Act to put together a major program for pandemic preparedness for the future. He wanted to work with Francis Collins and I to make this happen and suggested that we might write an op Ed together. This evening I got a text from Beth Cameron of NSC. Beth indicated that I was her hero for what I did with Rand Paul and that she had heard from Eric Lander that I was discussing with him the issue of the $30 billion. I texted her back saying that I would push hard for this with Ron Klain and Jeff Zients. I will be seeing the President in the Oval Office today and hopefully Ron will be there so that I can discuss this with him.