Our world changed on September 11th, 2001. Many of us have specific memories of the day.
Our nation vowed we will never forget the violence committed on that day, the sacrifices made by thousands of people, civilians and first responders alike, the grief of those who suffered.
America’s motto is E pluribus unum: out of many, one. It’s supposed to represent the strength we can only have when we come together. But today, in the wake of what Rand Paul has done to 9/11 first responders, it has a different meaning for me.
Rand Paul stands alone in our country and in our Congress as the fiercest opponent of critical funding for 9/11 first responders and victims.
In 2019, he did what most of us agree is unthinkable. He torpedoed an unanimous motion to permanently invest in a fund for 9/11 first responders. He was the sole objector.
When every other Senator was ready to provide for first responders, what did Rand do? He stood up, and he talked about money.
His first words were: “It has long been my feeling that we need to address our massive debt in this country.”
It is absolutely shameful. There are no words for this kind of behavior, this level of gross negligence and misfeasance. At this very moment, Rand is blasting stations and screens across Kentucky with his declarations that he’s fighting for freedom.
Freedom for who? Not for first responders. Not for veterans. Not for seniors. This is who Rand always has been and always will be. Because what did he do just last month? He tried to block the PACT Act.
Rand Paul hasn’t changed an ounce since he objected to the unanimous motion in 2019. It was clear then, and it is clear now: Rand Paul is not fit to be a Senator.
It’s our duty to look out for one another, to protect each other. That’s what I was raised to do here in Kentucky. It’s what our senator should be doing.
Never forget.
Together,
Charles Booker
