Family ties: Ron Paul's secession comments could pose headache for Rand

FILE: Jan. 3, 2012: Former GOP presidential candidate Texas Rep. Ron Paul and son Kentucky GOP Sen. Rand Paul at a rally in Ankeny, Iowa.(REUTERS)

Ron Paul has done it again. The firebrand former Texas congressman and GOP presidential candidate is making waves by touting Scotland's recent bid to secede from the United Kingdom -- and the impact it might have inspiring similar movements in the United States.

His views may be no surprise to the libertarian politician's followers. But they pose another potential headache for his son Rand Paul, the Kentucky GOP senator who appears to be assembling the beginnings of a 2016 White House campaign.

The elder Paul -- who mounted presidential campaigns in 1988, 2008 and 2012 -- posted an essay Sunday on his Ron Paul Institute website in which he argued in favor of Scotland voters ultimately failed effort to secede. He touted "growing" support for secession bids inside America, and said those who "embrace secession are acting in a grand American tradition."

In an interview with Fox News Radio's Alan Colmes, Ron Paul defended his comments, saying secession is "generating interest as a reflection of the failure of the state" and the Obama administration. But as for his son, Paul made clear "he has his life and his politics."

He said the media sometimes stress the differences between the two of them, and "it's not really enjoyable for me."

But Tyler Harber, Republican strategist and partner in the Harden-Global communications firm, said the father's comments and views could cause issues for the son.

Unfortunately for Rand Paul, most voters are going to have a difficult time differentiating between his policy statements and those of his father, he said.

Harber noted that former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush might have similar baggage should he decide to launch a 2016 GOP presidential bid, potentially being tied to his father George H.W. Bush and brother George W. Bush.

Rand Paul is already facing a separate political challenge when it comes to the Islamic State threat, considering his non-interventionist views yet polls showing American support for military action.

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Family ties: Ron Paul's secession comments could pose headache for Rand