Trust is a behavior, not a credential – and that explains the Rodgers-Fauci divide

Viewing trust as behaviors, not feelings, can help explain why some heed Aaron Rodgers’ advice over Dr. Fauci’s – and what experts can do about it.

By: John C. Besley, Michigan State University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: August 31, 2026

Words: 1,265

Last Updated: 1 month, 2 weeks ago

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By John C. Besley, Michigan State University

Following an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show on Aug. 3, 2026, Aaron Rodgers, quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, received attention for calling Dr. Anthony Fauci an “absolute coward” and “criminal.” Rodgers’ comments were in response to Fauci invoking his Fifth Amendment rights at a congressional hearing on pandemic-era policies and the origins of COVID-19.

Fauci exercised his Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination more than 100 …

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