Senate Republican: Rand Paul a ‘freaking snake’
The Hill
by Ashleigh FieldsFebruary 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Senate Republican Markwayne Mullin recently criticized colleague Rand Paul, calling him a "freaking snake" during a speech to voters in Oklahoma. Mullin’s remarks, reported by journalist David Arnett, highlight growing tensions within the GOP over Paul's voting record. The Oklahoma senator accused Paul of frequently opposing key Republican positions, a move that has drawn sharp backlash from his colleagues.
Mullin made these comments while speaking at the McGrath Breakfast Group in Tulsa, where he outlined his concerns about Paul’s political strategy. According to Arnett, Mullin argued that Paul’s tendency to buck party leadership on critical votes undermines Republican unity and effectiveness. This comes amid ongoing debates within the GOP over how to handle internal disagreements.
The clash between Mullin and Paul reflects broader tensions within the Republican Party, particularly around issues of loyalty and ideological consistency. Paul has long been seen as an independent voice within the party, often prioritizing libertarian principles over traditional GOP priorities. This has sometimes put him at odds with other Republicans, including Mullin, who view such independence as a liability in advancing their political agenda.
For readers interested in politics, this exchange underscores the challenges of maintaining cohesion within a large and diverse party like the GOP. The spat highlights how even minor differences in approach can lead to significant conflicts, potentially weakening the party’s overall stance on key issues. As the 2024 election approaches, such divisions may become increasingly relevant in shaping the political landscape.
Ultimately, Mullin’s criticism of Paul raises important questions about the future of Republican unity and strategy. Whether this tension will persist or whether other leaders will step in to bridge the gap remains to be seen. For now, however, it serves as a reminder of the internal struggles that can impact the party’s effectiveness on the national stage.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/19/2026