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.
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.
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.”