- Roots, Rights and Reason
- July 1, 2026
Dr. Quay recently joined investigative journalist Lee Smith on Roots, Rights and Reason, presented by America’s Future, to examine one of the most consequential scientific questions of the COVID-19 pandemic: Where did SARS-CoV-2 originate?
During the conversation, Dr. Quay explains the molecular, genetic, and epidemiological evidence that led him to conclude that the virus originated in a laboratory rather than through natural transmission at a wildlife market. He discusses unusual characteristics of the virus, evidence that it may have been circulating before the recognized outbreak in Wuhan, and the implications of high-risk gain-of-function research.
The discussion also looks beyond the origins of COVID-19. Dr. Quay outlines the need for stronger oversight of laboratory research, improved international biosecurity standards, and practical systems designed to identify and contain dangerous pathogens before they can cause another global crisis.
These subjects are explored in greater detail in Dr. Quay’s new book, The Code as Witness: Proof of COVID’s Lab Origin and a Pandemic Prevention Plan.
Learn More About The Code as Witness
In The Code as Witness, Dr. Quay examines the evidence contained within the genetic code of SARS-CoV-2 and presents a science-based plan for reducing the risk of future laboratory-related pandemics.
This interview originally appeared on Roots, Rights and Reason with Lee Smith, presented by America’s Future.
