Sen. Rand Paul, Kentucky Republican, is in New Hampshire Wednesday with a full slate of events in store in the early presidential primary state.
The trip is scheduled to include meetings with legislative and business leaders and activists, gun rights supporters, a meeting with the mayor of Manchester and a question-and-answer session on Common Core education standards.
Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, who is laying the groundwork for his own possible presidential bid, is a noted supporter of the Common Core standards, which are opposed by many conservative activists.
Mr. Paul, in another signal that he’s making serious moves toward a possible run at the White House in 2016, is also bringing on Chip Englander, who most recently managed Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner’s campaign, as a would-be manager for a 2016 run. Mr. Paul has already announced he’ll run for re-election to the Senate in 2016.
A Paul aide confirmed the hire, first reported by The Washington Post.
The Kentucky senator has not been shy in offering thoughts on his potential rivals, telling The Daily Signal this week that 2012 GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney, reportedly considering another bid in 2016, was a “great businessman” and a “good person” but that he thinks he “had his chance.”
“I think he’s had his chance, and I think it’s time for some fresh blood,” Mr. Paul said.
Mr. Paul is also scheduled to make stops in Nevada, another early presidential state, later in the week.
• David Sherfinski can be reached at dsherfinski@washingtontimes.com.
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