Rand Paul, the Kentucky senator and potential 2016 Republican candidate for president, is heading to New Hampshire, the state that traditionally holds the first in the nation primary.

The Associated Press reported Friday that Paul will give the keynote address at the New Hampshire Republican Party’s May 20 Liberty Dinner.

“Sen. Rand Paul has been a leader in the fight for smaller government, lower taxes and fiscal responsibility in Washington,” said state GOP Chairman Jennifer Horn. “I am honored that Sen. Paul has agreed to address our party and I look forward to welcoming him to the Granite State.”

The National Journal pointed out that with this trip, Paul “will be the first potential 2016 contender to touch base in all three of the states hosting the earliest nominating contests, revealing raw electoral ambitions to surpass his father’s standing as a tea party movement leader.”

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