A bitter feud has erupted between Republican Sen. Rand Paul and a top border official in Donald Trump’s administration, causing turmoil as Congress aims to pass a crucial policy bill. The dispute centers on the bill’s border security provisions, with Paul adamantly opposing the administration’s request for $150 billion in funds for border security and deportation. Paul is pushing to significantly reduce this funding, leading to an open clash between him and key GOP figure Stephen Miller.

The tension between Paul and Miller escalated publicly, with Paul criticizing Miller’s actions and comments, including suggesting that Miller was behind his exclusion from a White House event. Despite this, Trump personally invited Paul and his family to the event. Paul’s strong stance against Trump’s border security funding has isolated him among Hill Republicans, although some GOP senators have raised concerns about specific funding allocations.

The back-and-forth between Paul and Miller has frustrated fellow GOP senators, with differing opinions on the necessity and allocation of border security funds. Paul defended his position by calling for justification of the funding request, challenging other senators’ support for Trump’s demands. The dispute further intensified as Miller met with Senate Republicans, facing probing questions about the border funding’s details and expenses.

Overall, the escalating conflict between Paul and Miller underscores the challenges and divisions within the GOP regarding border security funding, highlighting the complexities and differing perspectives within the party on this critical issue.