Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) opened Sen. Markwayne Mullin's confirmation hearing with a remarkable challenge, daring the Homeland Security secretary nominee to "tell me to my face" why Paul deserved an assault that left him with broken ribs.
Why it matters: Mullin's hearing got off to a rocky start — and Paul said afterwards that he would vote against reporting Mullin's nomination out of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which he chairs.
- "You have never had the courage to look me in the eye and tell me the assault was justified," Paul said, referring to comments Mullin made at a town hall, where he also called Paul a "freakin' snake."
- "And while you're at it, explain to the American public why they should trust a man with anger issues," Paul added.
The other side: Mullin addressed Paul directly in his opening statement.
- "Seems like you fight Republicans more than you work with us," Mullin said.
- "I did address those remarks. I did explain your gimmicks by the amendment you put forth," he added.
"I don't think anybody should be hit by surprise. I don't like that. But if I do have something to say, everybody in this room knows I'll come straight to you."
- "I am not scared of a challenge," Mullin said. "I am scared of failure."
- "We have to get DHS funded," Mullin added, referencing the looming shutdown.
What we're watching: Paul told Semafor that while he would vote "no," he has agreed to "get an expeditious vote" on the nomination in his committee.
- Still, it's clear the Oklahoma senator doesn't have an ally in Paul.
- "The record should show — and I think will show — a lack of contrition, no apology, and no regrets for your support," Paul said in response.
- Mullin responded: "I'm not apologizing for pointing out your character."
Editor's note: This story has been updated with additional reporting.
