Senator Rand Paul has spoken out strongly after the White House briefly removed him and his family from the invitation list for the 2025 Congressional picnic.
The move followed Paul’s recent opposition to Donald Trump’s proposed federal budget and increased spending plans. Paul, known for his libertarian stance on government spending, had publicly criticized the rising national debt and called for more fiscal discipline.
The Kentucky senator described the uninvitation as "immature" and said it was a sign of how politics is becoming more personal and less professional. He was particularly frustrated that even his infant grandson had been taken off the guest list.
Paul told reporters he believes the decision was likely made by political aides close to Trump who were unhappy with his stance.
He said that using social events to retaliate against lawmakers with differing views sends the wrong message.
Paul emphasized that he has supported many of Trump’s policies in the past, but this incident made him question the atmosphere around the former president’s campaign and staff. “This kind of behavior is not how a strong and confident administration should operate,” he said.
JUST IN - SENATOR RAND PAUL: "I've just been told that I've been uninvited from the [White House] picnic...every Democrat will be invited, every Republican invited, but I will be the only one disallowed. I just find this incredibly petty."pic.twitter.com/rXTIDuXIeq
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) June 11, 2025
Trump Responds as Paul Attends Picnic Anyway
After media coverage brought attention to the uninvitation, Trump posted a message on Truth Social clarifying that Senator Paul was indeed welcome at the picnic.
Trump acknowledged that Paul can be a “tough vote,” but added that he still respects him. He ended the message by saying he hoped to see Paul at the event.
Paul ended up attending the picnic with his family. During the gathering, Trump greeted him with a comment saying Paul had "snuck in," trying to lighten the mood.
While the remark received laughs, it also confirmed the tension behind the scenes.
After the event, Paul said he appreciated the opportunity to attend but stood by his criticism. He urged for a more respectful and issue-focused political culture. Paul also noted that this incident is a sign of deeper problems within the Republican Party, where open disagreement is often met with personal attacks rather than healthy debate.
The dispute has raised new questions about internal party unity ahead of the 2024 elections, especially as Trump continues to shape the GOP’s future direction.
As a senior voice in the Senate, Paul’s comments reflect concerns that many lawmakers may be afraid to speak out for fear of political backlash—even over minor issues like invitations to social events.
