Dog barks during Fauci testimony as Senate holds virtual hearing

A dog barking during a virtual Senate hearing featuring infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci sparked reactions on Tuesday from members of the political media, with one prominent presidential historian quipping that the sounds of a canine would improve any public meeting. 

The dog could clearly be heard as Fauci was offering his testimony, suggesting an unidentified senator did not apply the mute button. 

Dogs barking over Senators trying to ask Dr Fauci and other health officials questions is the only thing to like about 2020.

— Paula Reid (@PaulaReidCBS) May 12, 2020

The barking dogs in the background make the Senate hearing unlike any other.

— Josh Dawsey (@jdawsey1) May 12, 2020

Not every day you hear a barking dog in a Senate hearing — the new Covid reality. #COVID19

— Bret Baier (@BretBaier) May 12, 2020

Barking dog improves rhetorical level of any public meeting.

— Michael Beschloss (@BeschlossDC) May 12, 2020

A dog barking in the background of a Senate hearing is peak 2020

— Adrienne Vogt (@AdrienneVogt) May 12, 2020

Is that a dog barking during the Fauci congressional hearing? Gigi expresses solidarity for that canine singing the song of their species. pic.twitter.com/sojJtuK98I

— Tamara Lush (@TamaraLush) May 12, 2020

The dog owner in question was eventually identified by NBC News White House correspondent Kelly O’Donnell, who reported that Rufus, Chairman Lamar Alexander’s (R-Tenn.) pooch, was the one speaking up.

Chairman @SenAlexander’s dog Rufus is using his minutes it would seem for well placed barking. #ChairmansDog

— Kelly O’Donnell (@KellyO) May 12, 2020

Washington, D.C., is currently under stay-at-home orders that are set to expire on Friday, though Mayor Muriel Bowser said last Friday she preferred a “telework posture” for “as long as possible.”