Republican Senator Rand Paul’s son, William Paul, is apologizing after allegedly making antisemitic and anti-gay remarks during a drunken confrontation with Republican Congressman Mike Lawler at a Washington, D.C. bar. In a social media post, William Paul wrote, “Last night, I had too much to drink and said some things that don’t represent who I really am. I’m sorry and today I am seeking help for my drinking problem.”
The apology came shortly after Lawler publicly described the encounter, which reportedly happened Tuesday night at the Tune Inn Restaurant & Bar near Capitol Hill. According to Lawler, Paul launched into what he called “a 10-minute diatribe about Jews” and allegedly said he “hates Jews and hates gays and doesn’t care if they die.” Lawler also claimed Paul blamed Israel for the U.S. conflict with Iran. He said he would blame anti-American jews if Kentucky Congressman Thomas Massie loses his upcoming Republican primary race.
Massie is Rand Paul’s ally, and his election campaign has already drawn criticism over rhetoric targeting billionaire donor Paul Singer, who is Jewish and supports LGBTQ rights. The bar rant incident was first reported by journalist Reese Gorman of the digital outlet Notus. William Paul has reportedly faced previous charges related to drunken assault and impaired driving. Rand Paul’s Senate office did not immediately comment on the incident.
