Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) and Dr. Anthony Fauci had a sharp exchange on Thursday during a Senate hearing about the current status of the federal government’s response to COVID-19.

Paul wanted to know more information about royalty payments scientists at the National Institutes of Health have received.

“Over the period of time from 2010 to 2016, 27,000, royalty payments were paid to 1,800 NIH employees. We know that not because you told us, but because we forced you to tell us through the Freedom of Information Act,” Paul said, noting that more than “$193 million was given to these 1,800 employees.” 

“Can you tell me that you have not received a royalty from any entity that you ever oversaw the distribution of money in research grants?” he asked.

Fauci wasn’t sure but sternly said he doubted it.

Paul pressed the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases director since the NIH “refuses” to divulge identifying information about the scientists who received royalties.