This is why Paul is a major player for 2016.

The Hill:

"Nobody questions his legal authority, but I think he's really losing the moral authority to lead this nation," Paul added.

"And he really needs to put a stop to this. I don't care whether you're a Republican or a Democrat, nobody likes to see the opposite party punishing you for your political beliefs."

The Kentucky Republican also said that it was too soon to say whether any crime was committed in the IRS's targeting of conservative groups, after an agency official, Lois Lerner, invoked her right against self-incrimination last week.

"I think there needs to be a speedy resolution to this," Paul said. "And I think the president is in danger of losing his moral authority to lead the nation if we don't get to a resolution."

This is the high road the GOP should have been taking all along. And Paul is striking exactly the right note in challenging the president's "moral authority." It's a devastating attack because it resonates with ordinary voters. And it certainly elevates Paul, placing him above the fray.

Paul continues to impress as he tries to break out of pack and establish himself as a reasonable, but strong candidate for president in 2016.