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Why Libertarian Rand Paul Stands Out fom the Pack

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LOUISVILLE, Ky. -- The second Republican to enter the race for president could be the most unconventional candidate the party has seen in quite a while.

Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., a staunch libertarian, announced his plans with a strong message for the Washington establishment.

It had all the signs of a presidential campaign: American flags, the faithful dressing for success, and an anti-Washington message.

"I have a message, a message that is loud and clear and does not mince words: we have come to take our country back," Paul proclaimed to the home crowd. "The Washington machine that gobbles up our freedoms and invades every nook and cranny of our lives… must be stopped!"

A Return to the Bill of Rights

While Paul's message hits traditional party themes like IRS reform and a flat tax, he's positioning himself as a different kind of Republican. That means preaching a message covering the entire Bill of Rights.

His  appeal to Millennials references the Fourth Amendment's call against unlawful government search and seizures. His plan to gain the trust of African Americans includes a bold discussion of the Fifth Amendment's call for due process under the law.

This strategy adds up to building a coalition Paul hopes will power him to the presidency. He has the support of former Congressman J.C. Watts. 

"The old traditional establishment guys hadn't necessarily gotten us there. So why do we do the same old thing, the same old way?" Watts asked.

A Place Among Evangelicals

While Paul's libertarian-leaning message may indeed appeal to a younger audience, there is another huge part of his strategy that focuses in on the all-important evangelical vote.

For the last couple years, he's built relationships behind the scenes with key evangelical political players. Just last week, CBN News captured Paul talking to pastors about matters of faith and politics.

"We need a revival in the country. We need another great awakening with tent revivals of thousands of people saying reform or see what's going to happen if we don't reform," Paul told the group of evangelicals at a private prayer breakfast.

Making a Difference

When CBN News visited the Paul family in their home two years ago, his wife Kelley was already trying to get her mind around a presidential run.

"It's a contact sport and you have to put yourself out there. I think it's worth it in the end for all the opportunities and to make a difference and I believe Rand can make a difference," she said.

His supporters in Kentucky are convinced that Rand Paul is a difference maker and will shake up GOP politics.

"He doesn't believe in non-violent offenders really staying in prison and it's time for prison reform. I think it's the one thing that will get young voters like myself to go out for it. I think his policies as a whole will make everyone come together," Paul supporter Sebastian Manganello said.

Paul supporter Neal Robertson said, "In regards to help fix some of the conditions of the African American people, education, employment, housing and the biggest thing, felons' rights. So he's been talking things we've wanted to hear. Now we're waiting for him to do it."

Paul has his detractors, too.

Critics say he's too soft on foreign policy and asserting America's military might around the world. It's just one hurdle Paul will need to maneuver in his quest for the presidency.

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About The Author

David
Brody

David Brody is a thirty-four-year veteran of the television industry and currently serves as Chief Political Analyst for CBN News. He’s interviewed many prominent national figures across the political spectrum during his time at the Christian Broadcasting Network, including former President Donald Trump. During Trump’s administration, David interviewed him at the White House, aboard Air Force One, and at Mar-a-Lago. He’s also interviewed former Vice President Mike Pence and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo three times each. In addition, David has provided on-air political analysis for CNN