Washington, D.C., Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) said she would honor the nation’s leading infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci’s 80th birthday Thursday with “Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Day.”
The mayor tweeted Wednesday, saying, “We are incredibly proud to count Dr. Fauci among the many DC residents who are sacrificing so much to keep our communities healthy and safe.”
Bowser issued a proclamation that Fauci’s birthday, which falls on Christmas Eve, would be “Dr. Anthony S. Fauci Day” in Washington, D.C., this year.
As the leading infectious disease expert on the White House coronavirus task force, Fauci has been a top source of public health guidance throughout the coronavirus pandemic, advising the nation on how to safely navigate one of the worst pandemics since the 1918 Spanish Flu.
Fauci has also served as director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984 and has advised six presidents during his tenure. Fauci has said he will serve as chief medical adviser for President-elect Joe Biden.
He and his spouse Christine Fauci have lived in the District since 1977, according to the mayor’s proclamation.
“Dr. Fauci has been a shining light in dark times for the nation, promoting truth over fear and giving Americans hope in their government,” Bowser added.
The mayor encouraged Washington residents to join her in the spirit of wishing Fauci a happy birthday on Thursday.