AP Photo Rand Paul 'absolutely' committed to presidential race

Rand Paul says he is "absolutely" in the presidential race for the long haul, despite sagging poll numbers and his early debate struggles.

As he entered the Senate chamber to cast a vote against a government funding bill on Tuesday evening, the Kentucky senator dismissed chatter from early state insiders who suggested he might abandon the race.


"Too busy running for office to react to the silliness," Paul said in a brief interview. Asked if he was committed long-term to the presidential race, Paul said “absolutely."

"The race is still early and the polls are very very soft and very very mobile," Paul added, touting support from Iowa college students. "All the stuff from Trump and others is silliness. We're in it for the duration."

Paul is also pursuing reelection to the Senate should his presidential bid stumble.