History of Rand Paul in Timeline
"Randal Howard Paul is a Republican senator from Kentucky known for his libertarian views, similar to his father, former congressman Ron Paul. He has served in the Senate since 2011 and identifies as a constitutional conservative and Tea Party supporter."
January 7, 1963: Birth of Rand Paul
Randal Howard Paul was born on January 7, 1963. This event marks the beginning of his life.
1964: Controversy Over Civil Rights Act Stance
Rand Paul's campaign faced controversy over his comments about the Civil Rights Act of 1964. He stated he would have questioned the constitutionality of Title II, but later clarified he would have voted for the Act.
1968: Paul Family Moves to Lake Jackson, Texas
The Paul family relocated to Lake Jackson, Texas in 1968, where Rand would spend his formative years and his father established his medical practice.
1976: Ron Paul's Congressional Election and Rand Paul's Attendance at the Republican National Convention
In 1976, Rand Paul's father, Ron Paul, was elected to the US House of Representatives. That same year, a 13-year-old Rand Paul attended the Republican National Convention, where his father led Ronald Reagan's Texas delegation. These events suggest an early exposure to the political sphere.
1981: Start of Studies at Baylor University
Rand Paul began his undergraduate studies at Baylor University in the fall of 1981, marking the start of his formal higher education journey.
1984: Leaving Baylor for Duke University School of Medicine
In 1984, Rand Paul left Baylor University without completing his baccalaureate degree to attend Duke University School of Medicine, choosing to pursue his medical aspirations.
1984: Supporting Ron Paul's Senate Campaign
Rand Paul took a semester off from Baylor University in 1984 to assist with his father's unsuccessful campaign for the US Senate in Texas. This experience provided early exposure to the demands of political campaigning and demonstrated his commitment to his father's political aspirations.
1988: Earning a Doctor of Medicine Degree
Rand Paul earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Duke University School of Medicine in 1988, a significant achievement marking the culmination of his medical studies.
October 20, 1990: Marriage to Kelley Ashby
Rand Paul married Kelley Ashby, a freelance writer, on October 20, 1990.
1991: Founding of the North Carolina Taxpayers Union
Rand Paul founded the North Carolina Taxpayers Union in 1991 in response to President George H. W. Bush's broken promise on tax increases. This action reflects his early involvement in anti-tax advocacy and his burgeoning interest in fiscal conservatism.
1992: Birth of First Son, William
Rand Paul and Kelley Paul's first son, William, was born in 1992.
June 1993: Continuous Medical License Validity
Rand Paul has maintained a valid medical license without any board actions since June 1993, demonstrating his adherence to professional standards and regulations.
1993: Becoming an "Active, Licensed Physician"
Rand Paul became an "active, licensed physician" in 1993 after completing his residency, marking the official start of his career in ophthalmology.
1993: Start of Ophthalmology Practice in Bowling Green
Rand Paul began his career as a practicing ophthalmologist in Bowling Green, Kentucky in 1993. This marked the start of his medical career.
1993: Completion of Residency in Ophthalmology
Rand Paul completed his residency in ophthalmology in 1993, signifying the end of his formal medical training and his readiness to begin practicing medicine independently.
1993: First Malpractice Lawsuit
Rand Paul faced his first malpractice lawsuit in 1993. While the specifics of the case are unknown, this event marks a significant challenge in his early career as a physician.
1994: Founding of Kentucky Taxpayers United
In 1994, Rand Paul established Kentucky Taxpayers United (KTU), an anti-tax organization that he chaired from its inception. This initiative highlights his dedication to promoting fiscal conservatism and government accountability at the state level.
1995: Certification by the American Board of Ophthalmology and Advocacy for Recertification
Rand Paul received certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology in 1995. He also campaigned for mandatory recertification for all ophthalmologists every ten years, demonstrating his commitment to professional standards and accountability in his field.
1995: Maintenance of ABO Certification
Rand Paul maintained his certification from the American Board of Ophthalmology from 1995 to 2005, showcasing his commitment to upholding professional standards within his field.
1996: Managing Ron Paul's Successful Congressional Campaign
Rand Paul managed his father's successful campaign for Congress in 1996, demonstrating his political acumen and commitment to his father's political career. This victory marked Ron Paul's return to the House after a 12-year absence.
1998: Joining Graves Gilbert Clinic
After working at Downing McPeak Vision Centers, Rand Paul joined Graves Gilbert Clinic, a private medical group practice, in 1998. This change reflects a shift in his career within the field of ophthalmology.
1999: Incorporation of the National Board of Ophthalmology
Rand Paul founded the National Board of Ophthalmology (NBO) in 1999, aiming to offer a more affordable alternative to the existing certification system. However, the NBO faced challenges with acceptance and accreditation, ultimately leading to its dissolution.
2000: Kentucky Taxpayers United Dissolution
The Kentucky Taxpayers United (KTU) was legally dissolved by the state in 2000 for failing to file registration documents.
2000: NBO's Failure to Renew Operation
The National Board of Ophthalmology, founded by Rand Paul, failed to file the necessary paperwork for renewal with the Kentucky Secretary of State's office and ceased operations in 2000.
2002: Kentucky Taxpayers United Cease of Operations
The Kentucky Taxpayers United (KTU) stopped issuing ratings and report cards after 2002.
2005: End of ABO Certification Maintenance
Rand Paul's maintenance of his American Board of Ophthalmology certification ended in 2005, marking a change in his certification status while his medical license remained valid.
2005: Reestablishment of the NBO
Rand Paul reestablished the National Board of Ophthalmology in 2005, demonstrating his persistent belief in the need for an alternative certification system. However, the NBO would again face challenges and eventually dissolve.
2008: Supporting Ron Paul's Presidential Campaign
Rand Paul actively campaigned for his father, Ron Paul, during the 2008 presidential election. His involvement included door-to-door campaigning in New Hampshire and speaking at a fundraising rally in Boston.
2008: Grayson's Vote for Bill Clinton
During the 2010 Senate race, Paul's campaign highlighted his opponent Trey Grayson's admission that he had voted for Bill Clinton in 1992. This became a point of contention in the election.
2008: Establishment of Private Practice
In 2008, Rand Paul established his own private practice, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and ambition within his medical profession.
September 2009: Kentucky Taxpayers United Report Cards
In September 2009, Rand Paul stated to a Kentucky television audience that the Kentucky Taxpayers United (KTU) had been publishing ratings on state legislators' tax positions for 15 years. However, this claim was later disputed.
2009: Interview with Alex Jones on Mandatory Vaccination
During a 2009 interview with conspiracy theorist Alex Jones, Rand Paul suggested that mandatory vaccination would be comparable to martial law, sparking debate about individual liberties and public health measures.
2009: Founding of the Southern Kentucky Lions Eye Clinic
In 2009, Rand Paul founded the Southern Kentucky Lions Eye Clinic, a testament to his dedication to providing accessible eye care to underserved communities.
2009: Anti-Abortion Stance
In 2009, Rand Paul took a strong anti-abortion stance, advocating for a ban on abortion under all circumstances.
2009: Potential Candidacy for US Senate
In early 2009, supporters of Ron Paul encouraged Rand Paul to consider running for the US Senate seat held by Jim Bunning. Rand Paul delivered his first political speech as a potential candidate at a Tea Party rally in Bowling Green in April 2009.
April 26, 2010: Dobson's Initial Endorsement and Subsequent Switch
James Dobson, a prominent evangelical figure, initially endorsed Rand Paul's opponent, Trey Grayson, in the Republican primary. However, after lobbying from Paul and his supporters, Dobson switched his endorsement to Paul on May 3, 2010.
2010: Wall Street Journal Report on Kentucky Taxpayers United
The Wall Street Journal reported that the KTU, contrary to Rand Paul's statements, had stopped issuing ratings and report cards after 2002 and had dissolved in 2000 after failing to file registration documents. This discrepancy led to controversy surrounding Paul's claims.
2010: 2010 US Senate Election Campaign
The 2010 US Senate election in Kentucky saw Rand Paul face off against Democrat Jack Conway. The campaign was marked by significant spending, both by the candidates themselves and by outside groups.
2010: Election to the US Senate
Rand Paul was elected to the US Senate in 2010, signifying his transition from medical practice to a prominent role in national politics.
2010: Second Malpractice Lawsuit
Rand Paul faced a second malpractice lawsuit in 2010. While one case was cleared, the other was settled for $50,000, highlighting the potential challenges and risks associated with a medical career.
2010: Support for Same-Sex Marriage Ban
In 2010, Rand Paul supported a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage nationwide, reflecting his personal opposition to the concept.
2010: Modified Abortion Stance
By 2010, Rand Paul modified his stance on abortion, allowing for a doctor's discretion in life-threatening cases, such as ectopic pregnancies.
January 5, 2011: Swearing-In as US Senator
On January 5, 2011, Rand Paul was sworn in as a US Senator alongside his father, Ron Paul, who was serving in the House of Representatives. This marked a unique moment with a father and son serving in Congress concurrently.
April 2011: Filed for Senate Re-Election
In April 2011, Rand Paul filed to run for re-election to his Senate seat in 2016, positioning himself for a continued political career while also considering a presidential run.
2011: Rand Paul Becomes Junior US Senator for Kentucky
In 2011, Rand Paul began his tenure as the junior United States Senator from Kentucky. This marked a significant milestone in his political career.
2011: Support for No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act
In 2011, Rand Paul signed onto the No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act, intended to prohibit federal funding for abortions, with exceptions for rape, incest, and life-threatening situations.
2011: Senate Actions and Positions
In 2011, Senator Rand Paul undertook a series of actions that reflected his political stance. He called for a vote of no confidence in Treasury Secretary Geithner, blocked legislation related to pipeline safety and refugee benefits, citing concerns about terrorism.
2011: Paul Criticizes Iraq War, Proposes Defense Budgets
In 2014, Rand Paul stated his belief that supporters of the Iraq War, not President Obama, were to blame for the rise in violence, arguing that the war strengthened Iran. He also put forth defense budget proposals, suggesting $542 billion in 2011 and $697 billion in 2015.
2011: "The Tea Party Goes to Washington" Publication
Rand Paul co-authored the book "The Tea Party Goes to Washington", which was published in 2011.
2011: Dissolution of the NBO
The National Board of Ophthalmology, founded and reestablished by Rand Paul, was dissolved once again in 2011 after facing ongoing challenges with acceptance and accreditation. This marked the end of Paul's efforts to establish an alternative certification pathway for ophthalmologists.
June 2012: Endorsement of Mitt Romney
Rand Paul endorsed Mitt Romney for president in June 2012, acknowledging Romney as the likely Republican nominee. However, he remained vocal about his policy disagreements with Romney.
2012: "Government Bullies" Publication
Rand Paul authored the book "Government Bullies", which was published in 2012.
January 2013: Considered Potential Presidential Candidate
In January 2013, Rand Paul was considered a potential candidate for the Republican nomination for the presidency, leading to increased public and media attention on his political actions and statements.
February 13, 2013: Tea Party Response to State of the Union
On February 13, 2013, Rand Paul delivered the Tea Party response to President Barack Obama's State of the Union address, highlighting his potential candidacy for the 2016 Republican nomination. This event marked the beginning of significant speculation about his presidential ambitions.
March 2013: Endorsement of Mitch McConnell's Re-election Campaign
In March 2013, Rand Paul endorsed fellow Kentucky Republican Senator Mitch McConnell's 2014 re-election campaign. McConnell had previously hired Paul's 2010 campaign manager, Jesse Benton.
April 11, 2013: Filibuster Attempt Against Gun Control Measures
On April 11, 2013, Rand Paul, along with Senators Ted Cruz and Mike Lee, attempted a filibuster to oppose federal gun control measures. The filibuster was dismissed by a cloture vote of 68–31.
July 19, 2013: Opposition to Detroit Bailout
On July 19, 2013, Rand Paul stated he would not support a federal bailout for Detroit following its declaration of bankruptcy, arguing that Washington lacked the funds and it would send the wrong message to other financially troubled cities.
October 2013: Plagiarism Controversy
In October 2013, Rand Paul faced controversy for plagiarizing parts of a speech in support of Virginia gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli from Wikipedia. Further instances of plagiarism were found in other speeches and writings, leading to significant media scrutiny.
2013: Paul Introduces Justice Safety Valve Act
Rand Paul initiated the Justice Safety Valve Act in 2013, aiming to provide judges with greater latitude in sentencing.
2013: Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Rand Paul was included in Time magazine's list of the world's 100 most influential people in 2013 and 2014.
2013: Filibuster Against John Brennan Nomination
Rand Paul held a 12-hour and 52-minute filibuster in 2013 to delay the confirmation of John Brennan as CIA Director. Paul's concerns centered around the Obama administration's drone policy, particularly its potential use within the United States.
2013: Advice to Medical Students at the University of Louisville
In 2013, while speaking to medical students at the University of Louisville, Paul made controversial remarks about the effectiveness of misinformation. This incident resurfaced years later, leading to renewed scrutiny of his views.
2013: Paul Introduces Industrial Hemp Farming Act
Rand Paul introduced the Industrial Hemp Farming Act in 2013, advocating for the legalization of industrial hemp cultivation at the federal level.
February 2014: Class Action Lawsuit Against NSA Surveillance
In February 2014, Rand Paul joined FreedomWorks in filing a class action lawsuit against the NSA's bulk collection of phone metadata. Paul argued it violated the Fourth Amendment, while critics deemed it a political stunt.
March 2014: Kentucky Senate Bill for Dual Candidacy
In March 2014, the Republican-controlled Kentucky Senate passed a bill allowing Rand Paul to run for both Senate re-election and the presidential or vice-presidential nomination. However, the Democratic-controlled Kentucky House of Representatives did not take up the bill.
April 2014: Speech at GOP Freedom Summit
In April 2014, Rand Paul delivered a speech at the GOP Freedom Summit, urging the Republican Party to broaden its appeal beyond wealthy and privileged individuals. He emphasized the need for the party to address issues of justice, unemployment, and government surveillance to attract a more diverse voter base.
December 2014: Call for CIA Director's Firing and Support for Changes in Cuba Policy
In December 2014, Rand Paul called for the firing of CIA Director John O. Brennan following reports of CIA infiltration into Senate Intelligence Committee computers. He also supported the Obama administration's efforts to ease trade restrictions with Cuba.
2014: Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People
Rand Paul was included in Time magazine's list of the world's 100 most influential people in 2013 and 2014.
2014: Paul Introduces Criminal Justice Reform Bills
Throughout 2014, Rand Paul introduced multiple bills focused on criminal justice reform, including the Civil Rights Voting Restoration Act, REDEEM Act, FAIR Act, and RESET Act, reflecting his commitment to addressing issues within the justice system.
2014: Hillary's Losers Campaign
In 2014, Rand Paul launched the 'Hillary's Losers' social media campaign to highlight Democratic candidates who lost their U.S. Senate bids despite endorsements from Hillary Clinton, aiming to undermine her influence as she pursued the presidency.
2014: Stance on Ukraine-Russia Relations
In response to political turmoil in Ukraine in early 2014, Rand Paul emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful relationship with Russia and avoiding actions that could provoke Russian military responses.
2014: Campaign for State House Republicans
In 2014, Rand Paul used his campaign funds to support Republican candidates for the Kentucky State House, aiming to flip the chamber and pass favorable legislation for his dual candidacy. Despite his efforts, Democrats retained their majority.
2014: Paul Criticizes Iraq War, Proposes Defense Budgets
In 2014, Rand Paul stated his belief that supporters of the Iraq War, not President Obama, were to blame for the rise in violence, arguing that the war strengthened Iran. He also put forth defense budget proposals, suggesting $542 billion in 2011 and $697 billion in 2015.
2014: Distinguished Service Award and Treaty Opposition
In 2014, Rand Paul played a key role in blocking a treaty with Switzerland that would enable the IRS to conduct tax evasion probes, arguing it infringed on Americans' privacy. He also received the 2014 Distinguished Service Award from the Center for the National Interest for his public policy work.
2014: Paul Supports States' Rights on Cannabis, Introduces Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment
In 2014, Rand Paul expressed support for states' rights on cannabis legalization and introduced the Rohrabacher-Farr amendment.
2014: Criticism of Ebola Response
In 2014, Rand Paul accused the Obama administration and the CDC of downplaying the threat of the Ebola virus in the United States, expressing concerns about their handling of the situation despite a limited number of cases within the country.
2014: Speech on NSA Surveillance
Delivering a speech titled "The N.S.A. vs. Your Privacy" at UC Berkeley in 2014, Rand Paul criticized warrantless surveillance of Americans and advocated for stronger defense of Fourth Amendment rights.
February 2, 2015: Statements on Vaccines
Rand Paul sparked controversy on February 2, 2015, with remarks suggesting that vaccinations should be voluntary, emphasizing parental rights in decision-making, although he clarified that he considers vaccines beneficial.
April 7, 2015: Presidential Candidacy Announcement
On April 7, 2015, Rand Paul officially announced his candidacy for the presidency. Within 24 hours, he raised $1 million, signaling significant initial support for his campaign.
May 20, 2015: Opposition to Patriot Act Reauthorization
On May 20, 2015, Rand Paul spoke for ten and a half hours in opposition to the reauthorization of Section 215 of the Patriot Act. As a result, sections of the Patriot Act were prevented from being reauthorized on June 1, 2015.
2015: Paul Introduces Bills Addressing Police Reform and Sentencing
Rand Paul continued his focus on criminal justice reform in 2015, introducing the Police CAMERA Act, Stop Militarizing Our Law Enforcement Act, and MERCY Act, aiming to address concerns related to police conduct and sentencing practices.
2015: Response to Marriage Equality Ruling
In 2015, following the Supreme Court's decision in Obergefell v. Hodges to legalize same-sex marriage across the United States, Rand Paul expressed his disagreement but acknowledged that all Americans have the right to contract, emphasizing his belief in local governance over federal intervention in marriage matters.
2015: Opposition to the PATRIOT Act
In 2015, Rand Paul delivered a ten-and-a-half-hour speech on the Senate floor opposing the renewal of certain provisions of the PATRIOT Act, arguing their unconstitutionality.
2015: Paul Criticizes Iraq War, Proposes Defense Budgets
In 2014, Rand Paul stated his belief that supporters of the Iraq War, not President Obama, were to blame for the rise in violence, arguing that the war strengthened Iran. He also put forth defense budget proposals, suggesting $542 billion in 2011 and $697 billion in 2015.
2015: Paul Supports Medical Cannabis, Introduces CARERS Act
Rand Paul voiced support for the legalization of medical cannabis in 2015 and introduced the CARERS Act, aiming to legalize it at the federal level.
February 3, 2016: Suspension of Presidential Campaign
On February 3, 2016, Rand Paul announced the suspension of his presidential campaign following a fifth-place finish in the Iowa caucus.
February 2016: Opposition to Supreme Court Nomination
In February 2016, following the death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, Rand Paul announced on February 15 that he would oppose any nomination by President Obama to replace Scalia.
May 6, 2016: Obama Calls on Paul to Stop Blocking Tax Treaties
On May 6, 2016, during a press briefing, President Obama called on Rand Paul to stop blocking the implementation of tax treaties that had been pending for years, arguing that they assisted law enforcement in offshore tax evasion investigations.
2016: Republican Presidential Nomination Bid
Rand Paul ran for the Republican nomination for President of the United States in 2016. While unsuccessful, this bid showcased his political aspirations and national profile.
2016: Increased Alliance with Trump
Since the 2016 Republican primary, Rand Paul, initially critical of Trump, became one of the president's closest allies, balancing support with occasional opposition.
2016: Front Runner in Conservative Polls
In 2016, Rand Paul was seen as a front runner for the Republican presidential nomination after winning the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) presidential straw poll for three consecutive years.
2016: Paul Blocks Resolution on Russian Election Interference
Rand Paul characterized the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election as a "witch hunt" and obstructed a Senate resolution affirming the intelligence community's assessment of the matter in July 2018.
2016: Paul Opposes US Support for Saudi-Led Intervention in Yemen
In 2016, Rand Paul was among the first members of Congress to publicly oppose US support for the Saudi Arabian-led intervention in Yemen.
2016: Re-election to the US Senate
In 2016, Rand Paul secured a second term as a US Senator, reaffirming his position in the Senate and his continued influence on national policy.
2016: Senate Re-Election Bid
In 2016, Rand Paul pursued re-election to his Senate seat while navigating the complexities of a potential presidential run, highlighting his continued influence in national politics.
2016: Proposal of the "Fair and Flat Tax" Plan
During his 2016 presidential campaign, Rand Paul proposed the "Fair and Flat Tax" plan, advocating for the replacement of the existing IRS tax code with a flat 14.5% tax on individuals and businesses.
January 25, 2017: Affordable Care Act Replacement Bill
On January 25, 2017, Paul introduced a bill to replace the Affordable Care Act. His proposal included a $5,000 tax credit per person and removed the individual mandate requiring coverage.
March 2017: Introduction of Stop Arming Terrorists Act
In March 2017, Rand Paul introduced the Stop Arming Terrorists Act to prohibit U.S. government funds from aiding terrorist organizations such as Al Qaeda and ISIL. On March 16, Senator John McCain accused Paul of being an agent of Vladimir Putin after Paul objected to adding Montenegro to NATO.
April 2017: Questioning Trump's Missile Strike in Syria
In April 2017, Rand Paul questioned President Trump's missile strike on Syria, stating that while the atrocities in Syria were condemnable, the United States had not been attacked and further action should require congressional authorization.
May 2017: Opposition to Paris Agreement
In May 2017, Rand Paul was one of 22 senators who signed a letter urging President Donald Trump to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement. Paul had received over $250,000 from oil, gas, and coal interests since 2012.
June 12, 2017: Paul Opposes New Sanctions on Russia and Iran
Rand Paul and Bernie Sanders were the only senators to oppose a bill imposing new sanctions on Russia and Iran on June 12, 2017.
June 2017: Paul Opposes US Arms Sales to Saudi Arabia
Rand Paul attempted to block a Trump administration plan to sell arms to Saudi Arabia in June 2017.
September 5, 2017: Response to DACA Rescission
On September 5, 2017, Rand Paul responded to the Trump administration's announcement of the intended rescission of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, stating that the executive order creating DACA was illegal and calling for congressional bipartisanship to address the issue.
October 2017: Opposition to Republican Budget
In October 2017, Rand Paul confirmed in an interview that he would not vote for the Republican budget in the Senate unless billions in spending were removed from the plan, highlighting his concerns about the national debt.
November 3, 2017: Assault by Neighbor
Rand Paul was assaulted by his neighbor, Rene Boucher, on November 3, 2017. The incident occurred while Paul was mowing his lawn wearing noise-canceling headphones, which reportedly allowed Boucher to approach unnoticed.
2017: Affordable Care Act Repeal and Replacement Efforts
Throughout 2017, Paul was actively involved in efforts to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. He engaged in discussions and debates, even publicly criticizing House Speaker Paul Ryan's handling of the issue.
2017: Paul Introduces Pretrial Integrity and Safety Act
In 2017, Rand Paul introduced the Pretrial Integrity and Safety Act, aiming to encourage states to implement reforms to their bail systems.
2017: Support for Tax Cuts and Jobs Act
In 2017, Paul voted in favor of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, a decision that critics, including Jon Stewart, later pointed to as being at odds with his stance on the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund. They argued that his support for the tax cuts, which increased the deficit, contradicted his claims of fiscal responsibility.
February 2018: Vote Against Immigration Framework
In February 2018, Rand Paul was one of fourteen Republican senators to vote against an immigration framework proposed by President Trump, which called for $25 billion for border security in exchange for a pathway to citizenship for 1.8 million immigrants.
April 2018: Paul Votes to Confirm Pompeo as Secretary of State
Despite earlier reservations due to Pompeo's foreign policy stance, Rand Paul voted in favor of Mike Pompeo's confirmation as Secretary of State in April 2018.
April 2018: Paul Criticizes US-Saudi Alliance
Rand Paul voiced criticism of the United States' alliance with Saudi Arabia in April 2018, pointing to the country's funding of extremist religious schools and alleged support of ISIS.
July 2018: Paul Blocks Resolution on Russian Election Interference
Rand Paul characterized the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 election as a "witch hunt" and obstructed a Senate resolution affirming the intelligence community's assessment of the matter in July 2018.
August 2018: FiveThirtyEight Voting Record
In August 2018, FiveThirtyEight reported that Rand Paul voted in line with Donald Trump's positions the least of all Republicans, with only a 74% alignment.
August 2018: Paul Meets with Russian Senators in Moscow
In August 2018, Rand Paul travelled to Moscow for a meeting with several Russian senators, including Sergey Kislyak.
December 2018: Paul Supports Trump's Syria Withdrawal
In December 2018, Rand Paul expressed support for President Trump's decision to remove the US military from the Syrian Civil War.
December 2018: Campaign Finance Violation Comments
In December 2018, following court filings that indicated President Trump's involvement in campaign finance violations, Paul downplayed the allegations. He argued against "over-criminalizing" such violations, suggesting they stemmed from paperwork errors rather than serious misconduct.
2018: Paul Introduces Pregnant Women in Custody Act
Rand Paul introduced the Pregnant Women in Custody Act in 2018, aiming to safeguard the well-being of pregnant women in prison.
2018: Paul Cosponsors STATES Act
Rand Paul showed his support for states' rights in cannabis policy by cosponsoring the STATES Act in 2018.
2018: Criticism of NSF Grant on Climate Change Education
Rand Paul called for an investigation into a National Science Foundation grant in 2018, criticizing the grant for supporting the education of meteorologists about climate change, deeming it "propagandizing" rather than "science".
January 2019: Criticism of Senator Mitt Romney
Paul publicly criticized Senator Mitt Romney in January 2019 for an editorial Romney wrote that critiqued President Trump. Paul argued that Romney's criticisms were detrimental to both the country and the Republican Party.
May 2019: Paul Opposes Subpoena of Donald Trump Jr.
Rand Paul opposed the Senate Intelligence committee's decision to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. regarding his interactions with Russians during the 2016 campaign in May 2019.
June 2019: Paul Cautions Against Escalating Tensions with Iran
Rand Paul cautioned against escalating tensions with Iran in June 2019, expressing concern that a war with Iran would be a grave error.
July 17, 2019: Blocking of 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund Renewal
Paul, along with Senator Mike Lee, blocked a unanimous consent motion on July 17, 2019, for a bill to renew the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund. This sparked controversy and drew criticism from figures like Jon Stewart, who accused Paul of hypocrisy for prioritizing fiscal concerns over the needs of 9/11 first responders.
August 2019: Part of Rand Paul's Lung Removed
In August 2019, Rand Paul had part of his lung removed as a result of injuries he sustained during an assault in November 2017.
September 2019: Rene Boucher's Sentence Vacated and He Is Resentenced
In September 2019, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit vacated the initial 30-day sentence of Rene Boucher, who assaulted Rand Paul, deeming it too lenient. The case was remanded for resentencing, resulting in Boucher receiving an eight-month prison term, six months of home confinement, and credit for the 30 days served.
November 4, 2019: Call to Reveal Ukraine Whistleblower's Identity
On November 4, 2019, Paul called for the media to expose the identity of the whistleblower who brought to light the Trump administration's dealings with Ukraine. This action further fueled the controversy surrounding the impeachment inquiry against President Trump.
November 2019: Support for Term Limits
Rand Paul demonstrated his support for term limits in November 2019 by signing a pledge advocating for a constitutional amendment to restrict senators to two terms.
2019: Vote Against Emergency Border Funding
In 2019, Rand Paul was one of 11 Republicans who voted against President Trump's demand for emergency border funding.
January 2020: Tweet on Climate Change
In January 2020, Rand Paul tweeted about climate change, expressing skepticism about alarmist predictions and suggesting human survival for millions of years while advocating for creating atmospheres on suitable moons or planets.
January 2020: Paul Criticizes US Airstrike in Baghdad
Rand Paul criticized the US airstrike on Baghdad International Airport in January 2020, which killed Iranian General Qasem Soleimani, arguing that it would heighten tensions between the two nations.
February 2020: YouTube Video Removal Criticism
In February 2020, YouTube removed a video of a floor speech Paul gave during Trump's impeachment trial. Paul criticized the platform for this action, particularly because the video contained a controversial question he posed to impeachment manager Adam Schiff.
February 26, 2020: Gilead Sciences Stock Purchase
Paul's wife bought stock in Gilead Sciences, a pharmaceutical company developing a COVID-19 treatment, on February 26, 2020. The purchase, made before the pandemic's severity was widely understood, raised concerns about potential insider trading, especially since the disclosure was filed 16 months late.
March 22, 2020: Rand Paul Tests Positive for COVID-19
On March 22, 2020, Rand Paul became the first U.S. Senator to test positive for COVID-19, drawing criticism for his actions prior to his diagnosis.
April 7, 2020: Rand Paul Recovers from COVID-19
On April 7, 2020, Rand Paul announced his recovery from COVID-19.
April 2020: Volunteering at a Bowling Green Hospital Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic
After recovering from COVID-19 in April 2020, Rand Paul volunteered at a hospital in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This act of service demonstrates his commitment to his community and his medical profession during a critical time.
May 2020: Criticism of COVID-19 Stay-at-Home Orders
Rand Paul criticized the stay-at-home orders implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic in May 2020, labeling them as "dictatorship" by Kentucky's governor, Andy Beshear.
June 2020: Support for Trump Administration
As of June 2020, Rand Paul had become one of President Trump's closest allies, despite occasionally voting against Trump's nominees and legislative proposals. According to FiveThirtyEight, Paul voted with Trump's position on congressional issues 70% of the time, the second lowest among Republican senators.
July 1, 2020: Senate Rejects Paul's Amendment on Afghanistan Withdrawal
The Senate rejected Rand Paul's amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act, which sought to withdraw all US troops from Afghanistan within a year, on July 1, 2020.
August 2020: Rand Paul Confronted by Protesters
In August 2020, following his attendance at the 2020 Republican National Convention, Rand Paul and his wife were confronted by protesters demanding justice for Breonna Taylor, leading to a police escort.
September 2020: Opposition to COVID-19 Aid Package
Paul was the only Republican senator to vote against a COVID-19 aid package in September 2020. He opposed the bill due to concerns about its impact on the national debt.
September 23, 2020: Clash with Dr. Fauci over COVID-19 Mitigation
During a Senate committee hearing on September 23, 2020, Rand Paul clashed with Dr. Anthony Fauci, questioning the effectiveness of COVID-19 mitigation measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing, citing New York's high fatality rate, while Dr. Fauci defended these measures and highlighted their role in controlling the virus.
December 2020: Claims of Election Fraud
In December 2020, Paul continued to allege that the 2020 election was "stolen," amplifying unfounded doubts about the integrity of the electoral process. Despite these claims, he ultimately accepted the state-certified electors who declared Biden the winner.
2020: Paul Introduces HEMP Act
In 2020, Rand Paul put forth the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act, which sought to raise the permissible THC level in hemp from 0.3% to 1%.
2020: Paul Stalls Anti-Lynching Legislation
In 2020, Rand Paul delayed the passage of bipartisan legislation that would have made lynching a federal crime. While stating that lynching should be universally condemned, he sought an amendment to clarify the definition of the crime.
2020: Refusal to Accept Biden's Victory
Following the 2020 presidential election, Paul refused to acknowledge Joe Biden's win, echoing Donald Trump's baseless claims of a stolen election.
2020: Condemnation of January 6th Capitol Attack
During the January 6th attack on the US Capitol, Paul condemned the violence, labeling it as "un-American" and detrimental to efforts for election reform.
2020: Paul Introduces Justice for Breonna Taylor Act
In 2020, Rand Paul introduced the Justice for Breonna Taylor Act, advocating for an end to the use of no-knock warrants.
January 2021: Challenges to Trump's Second Impeachment
In January 2021, as the Senate took up Trump's second impeachment trial, Paul challenged its constitutionality. He argued that the trial was invalid because Trump had already left office. Despite his efforts, the Senate proceeded with the trial.
February 3, 2021: Named Ranking Member of Small Business Committee
On February 3, 2021, Rand Paul was named a ranking member of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee.
February 13, 2021: Vote Against Trump's Second Impeachment
On February 13, 2021, Paul voted against convicting Trump in his second impeachment trial, which focused on Trump's role in the January 6th Capitol attack.
May 2021: Decision Against COVID-19 Vaccination and Opposition to Mandates
Rand Paul publicly announced in May 2021 his decision to forgo the COVID-19 vaccine, citing his prior infection and natural immunity as justification. He also challenged vaccine mandates, arguing against their necessity for individuals with previous infection.
May 28, 2021: Paul Votes Against January 6th Commission
Rand Paul cast his vote against the formation of an independent commission tasked with investigating the January 6, 2021 attack on the United States Capitol on May 28, 2021.
July 2021: Debate with Dr. Fauci on COVID-19 Origin and YouTube Suspension
Rand Paul engaged in debates with Dr. Anthony Fauci in May and July 2021, focusing on the origins of COVID-19 and expressing concerns about lab work risks. These debates garnered significant media attention. In July 2021, Fauci publicly refuted Paul's claims, escalating their disagreement.
August 11, 2021: Disclosure of Wife's Investment in Gilead Sciences
On August 11, 2021, Rand Paul disclosed that his wife, Kelley Paul, had purchased a stake in Gilead Sciences, a company manufacturing an antiviral drug used in COVID-19 treatment. This disclosure came on February 26, 2020, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest.
August 2021: YouTube Suspension and "Resist" Video
Rand Paul faced a one-week suspension from YouTube in August 2021 for violating the platform's misinformation policy by posting a video containing false claims regarding mask ineffectiveness. He also released a video encouraging resistance against public health measures aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19.
2021: Co-Sponsorship of the FDA Modernization Act 2.0
In 2021, Rand Paul co-sponsored the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, aiming to eliminate the requirement for animal testing in drug development before human trials, citing ethical concerns and potential for faster, safer drug development.
January 2022: Resurfaced Video on Misinformation
A 2013 video of Paul resurfaced in January 2022, sparking controversy. In the video, Paul, while addressing medical students, advised them to use misinformation strategically, stating, "misinformation works, so try to trick your opponents." This statement drew criticism for its potential to undermine trust and encourage the spread of falsehoods.
May 12, 2022: Paul Halts Vote on Ukraine Aid Bill
Rand Paul halted a vote on a $40 billion aid package for Ukraine during the 2022 Russian invasion on May 12, 2022, objecting to the size and timing of the bill.
May 2022: Blocking of Ukraine Aid Bill
In May 2022, Paul single-handedly blocked a bipartisan bill to provide $40 billion in aid to Ukraine following the Russian invasion. He cited the need for greater oversight of the aid as justification for his action.
December 2022: FDA Modernization Act 2.0 Signed into Law
The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, co-sponsored by Rand Paul and Cory Booker, was signed into law in December 2022, eliminating the mandatory animal testing requirement for drugs in development before human trials.
2022: Introduction of Right to Try Clarification Act and Breakthrough Therapies Act
In 2022, Rand Paul introduced two significant acts: the Right to Try Clarification Act, aiming to clarify the use of Schedule I drugs for terminally ill patients, and the Breakthrough Therapies Act, proposing the rescheduling of Schedule I drugs like psilocybin and MDMA upon FDA designation as breakthrough therapies.
2022: Re-Election for Third Senate Term
Rand Paul was elected for his third term in the U.S. Senate in 2022. Despite his support for term limits, he argued against self-imposing them and expressed his intention to run for re-election.
2022: Third Term Election to the US Senate
Rand Paul was elected to his third term in the US Senate in 2022, solidifying his long-term presence in the Senate and his commitment to representing Kentucky.
March 2023: Opposition to TikTok Ban
In March 2023, Paul broke with fellow Republicans by blocking Senator Josh Hawley's bill to ban TikTok in the United States. Paul argued that a ban would infringe on First Amendment rights and questioned its effectiveness in protecting user data.
October 10, 2023: Publication of "Deception: The Great Covid Cover-Up"
Rand Paul's book, "Deception: The Great Covid Cover-Up," was published on October 10, 2023, by Regnery Publishing, focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic and presenting his perspective on the events surrounding it.
January 11, 2024: Major Announcement Teased for 2024 Primaries
On January 11, 2024, Rand Paul teased a major announcement about the 2024 Republican Party presidential primaries set for the following morning. He later launched an anti-endorsement campaign against Nikki Haley, criticizing her foreign policy stances, particularly her support for increased taxpayer funding for Ukraine and aggressive military actions. Paul expressed a preference for Donald Trump, Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. but did not endorse any specific candidate.
January 2024: Paul Votes for Resolution on Israel Military Assistance
In January 2024, Rand Paul voted in favor of a resolution, introduced by Bernie Sanders, that aimed to extend human rights provisions of the Foreign Assistance Act to US military aid for Israel. The resolution was ultimately defeated.
2027: Becoming Kentucky's Senior Senator
Rand Paul is set to become Kentucky's senior senator in 2027 following the departure of Mitch McConnell. This transition highlights his seniority and experience in the Senate.
2090: Proposed Extension of 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund
The bill Paul blocked in 2019 aimed to extend the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund until the year 2090, ensuring long-term support for those affected by the 9/11 attacks.