The conspiracy theorists, largely starting on QAnon-type message boards, spread misinformation about Fauci’s supposed role either covering up the origins of or creating (or enhancing or weaponizing) the COVID-19 pandemic. They spun out elaborate theories explaining why the U.S. government or China or other entities would create the virus. Or, alternatively, why Fauci would lead the push to convince the public of the reality of a nonexistent pandemic, in order to justify authoritarian lockdown measures. The theories were contradictory and convoluted, but they all led to Anthony Fauci as a sinister boogeyman.
What will happen to those theories when Fauci steps back from the public eye? Will they persist once he stops making regular media appearances or announcing new mask policies or vaccines?
According to experts, there are a few factors that could make a difference. The answer will depend, in part, on how quickly the government finds a successor for Fauci and whether that replacement is as media-friendly or proactive about containment measures as Fauci. It will make a difference whether conservative or mainstream media continue to circulate stories about him that keep him at the forefront of the conspiracy theorists’ minds. It will depend on whether influencers within the QAnon world decide to amplify Fauci-related theories.
And it will depend on what Republican politicians in office decide to do.
Join the conversation as a VIP Member