Discussion becomes dangerous when those in power profit from misinformation. Bear in mind that specific statement is not from the "US Government" but rather from specific representatives (read "Republican politicians") on a House Oversight committee. It was not the consensus of scientists or the US intelligence service, however certain individuals in the house have a vested interest in blaming China for engineering the pandemic so that they can demonize foreigners rather than be forced to implement better pandemic early warning systems. THAT is when discussion becomes, quite literally, dangerous.