Paul Broun Jr. is running for Senate. And not state Senate, like the late Paul Sr. The real deal.
Athens’ Republican congressman made the announcement earlier today at the posh Hyatt Regency in Buckhead—home to many of the state’s richest donors, but home turf for potential rivals like Karen Handel, Tom Price and Phil Gingrey. Here’s the text of his speech. (Spoiler alert: It’s pretty low on the crazy scale.)
“I went to Congress to stand against out-of-control spending in Washington DC. Though it has often been a lonely fight, it is a necessary one.
“We must have someone to lead the fight to stop this madness, and restore fiscal restraint to our nation’s capital. Georgia needs a Senator who will take a stand to stop the irresponsible spending. I’ll be that leader!
“When I was sworn into the Marine Corps, and then again into the House of Representatives, I swore to defend the Constitution against all enemies both foreign and domestic. Out-of-control spending has become our nation’s enemy.
“I’ll be the only candidate in this race whose first priority is to stop the runaway spending in Washington D.C. I’ve sponsored more legislation to reduce spending than any other Member of Congress from this state.
“Georgians aren’t interested in labels or affiliation, they’re interested in solutions. And that begins by making Washington smaller and America bigger! That’s the reason I’m running for U.S. Senate.
“I’m Paul Broun. I’m ready to lead that fight against out-of-control spending. With your help, and by God’s grace, this is a campaign we’re going to win.”
Note how many times Broun referred to “out-of-control spending.” Nothing about abortion, evolution, Muslims, socialists or President Obama’s secret army.
Although Broun stayed on message today, eventually, he’s going to wander off the reservation. His penchant for gaffes means he’s a problem for Senate Republicans, according to the Washington Post. The Christian Science Monitor wonders if he’ll be the first target of Karl Rove’s effort to purge unelectable candidates.
Democrats, meanwhile, have their fingers crossed.
“Rep. Broun represents the worst and most extreme element of the Republican Party,” Mike Berlon, Georgia Democratic Party chairman, told USA Today. “If there is a living God, we’ll be facing him as the Republican nominee in November of 2014. Unfortunately, we’re probably not that lucky.”
Like what you just read? Support Flagpole by making a donation today. Every dollar you give helps fund our ongoing mission to provide Athens with quality, independent journalism.
