That tea party claim is more and more a media myth.
For example look at Freerepublic and Jim Robinson, as they mock Paul’s tea party claim, and support the tea party favorite Ted Cruz.
As Paul has moved farther left, and revealed his status as a pet of the establishment, and shown how flaky and pandering he is, he continues to slip as more people look closer at him.
I support Ted Cruz as well. I would not refuse to vote for Rand Paul. I will refuse to vote for Jeb or Chrispy. You should keep your powder dry for the real enemies of the party.