A Kentucky Democrat and top state leader made a vile joke about Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) during an event on Friday.

What happened?

Kentucky Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes reportedly "joked" that Paul "can be beaten," a reference to the vicious attack he endured last year at the hands of his neighbor.

"Just ask his neighbor. He can be beaten," Grimes said, according to Associated Press reporter Adam Beam.

Fox News reported that Grimes' comments came during a speech at the Fancy Farm Picnic in Kentucky, an event politicians in the Bluegrass State use to kickstart future campaigns.

Grimes is reportedly considering running for governor in 2019. She was first elected to her current position in 2012, making her the youngest official to hold the position in Kentucky history. She also ran for the Senate in 2014, losing to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R).

Paul did not attend Friday's event, Beam reported. Grimes alleged he was "looking for a campaign manager." In reality, Paul was preparing for an upcoming trip to Russia aimed at supporting President Donald Trump's global agenda, Fox News reported.

What was the response?

While Paul himself has not responded to the comments, Paul's chief strategist Doug Stafford hit back hard. Stafford made reference to Grimes' failed 2014 Senate campaign.

Paul's neighbor, Rene Boucher, was charged with felony assault over the attack. He was sentenced in June to 30 days in jail. A judge also ordered he pay a $10,000 fine and serve 100 community service hours.