U.S. Senators Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) and Rand Paul (R-Ky.) released text messages obtained from Dr. Anthony Fauci's government-issued cellphone, which were provided by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on August 5, 2026. The phone contains over 34,000 text messages and 522 voicemails, with only three contacts listed. The senators stated that it will take time to review the information to protect the privacy of individuals involved and to release relevant data to the public.
The released texts include discussions between Dr. Fauci, CDC Director Rochelle Walensky, and Surgeon General Vivek Murthy regarding COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant women, dated January 25-26, 2021. Dr. Fauci noted that, as of February 3, 2021, the FDA had found no significant safety concerns regarding the vaccine for pregnant women. Other officials, including Walensky and Murthy, reiterated the safety and importance of vaccination during pregnancy in subsequent statements throughout 2021 and early 2022.
Dr. James Thorp, an OB/GYN, published a critique of a study related to COVID-19 vaccinations and pregnancy, arguing that the methodology used to calculate the spontaneous abortion rate was flawed. He suggested that the rate should be adjusted based on the timing of vaccinations in pregnant women.
The information released may have implications for public health and informed consent regarding COVID-19 vaccinations for pregnant individuals.