Golf, Grudges, and 2017 Tax Cuts: The Senator Finds His Way Back to MAGA Country
Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) may have butted heads with President Donald J. Trump over spending, debt, and the future of America’s economy — but it seems the senator has found his way back into Trump’s good graces, one golf swing at a time.
Appearing this week on Fox Business with Larry Kudlow, Paul confirmed he’s still spending quality time with Trump, even amid policy disagreements.
“We played last week,” Paul said. “He’s still got a good game.”
This surprising reunion comes after a public spat over President Trump’s Big Beautiful Budget Bill — a sweeping economic plan that Paul opposed, citing concerns over the national debt and government overreach. Paul was one of the few Republicans to vote “no,” putting himself at odds with the America First agenda.
Trump vs. Paul: A Budget Battle
President Trump didn’t mince words during the budget battle, blasting Paul on Truth Social and even saying that voters in Kentucky “can’t stand him.” Paul, who has represented Kentucky in the Senate since 2010, took issue with what he saw as excessive spending — but the political cost may have been higher than expected.
Last month, Paul was disinvited from the White House picnic, prompting him to call Trump “immature” and “vindictive.” But the president — known for his strategic instincts — reversed course and welcomed Paul and his family back into the fold.
Still, tensions remained. After Paul’s no vote, Trump posted bluntly:
“What’s wrong with this guy?”
Golf Diplomacy and Economic Unity
Now, the two appear to be patching things up over golf — a favorite Trump pastime that has often served as a setting for behind-the-scenes diplomacy. Kudlow laughed and remarked to Paul that it was good to see them back on speaking terms — and even better that they were hitting the golf course together.
Paul, for his part, signaled that he’s ready to get back on board with Trump’s economic message, especially the promise to extend the 2017 Trump tax cuts — a policy move that remains wildly popular among seniors, small business owners, and working Americans.
“I wish him the best, but I also wish the country the best,” Paul said.
“Keeping the 2017 tax cuts is essential for economic growth. If we can go further with new tax relief, even better.”
A United Front Ahead of 2026?
While Paul may not agree with Trump on every issue, his recent comments suggest a willingness to support the America First agenda as the nation gears up for another critical election season. For many conservative voters, economic freedom, border security, and fiscal responsibility remain top priorities — and Paul seems to be aligning once again with the president who made those issues the cornerstone of his movement.