Well I've been out doing your work for you! I asked the NRA why Dr Paul was not included, and They said he was invited, but did not get back to them with a response.
Dr Paul's people said they did respond, but were told they were too late responding.
Here are some interesting articles I ran across looking for the info........
April 20, 2003
BY ROBERT NOVAK SUN-TIMES COLUMNIST
[snip]
NRA vs. Ron Paul
The National Rifle Association is considering opposing Rep. Ron Paul, a champion of gun rights, in next year's Texas Republican primary. Paul evoked the NRA's ire April 9 by opposing a bill that would order federal and state courts to immediately dismiss lawsuits against gun makers and gun sellers.
Paul always has defended Second Amendment protection for gun owners. However, he objected to Congress legislating against state rights. The bill carried, 285-140. Only three Republicans--Paul and two liberals-- voted against it.
The gun lobby is split on Paul. While the NRA wants to challenge him, the Gun Owners of America are in full support.
NRA Endorses Gun Control Democrat, Lies About Ron Paul's Record
Jones Report | November 1, 2006
By Kevin Smith
Any doubt the NRA isn't a shill organization, have now been removed for all to see. The recent B rating given to Dr. Ron Paul (R) TX -14th District, is an outrage. According to the NRA's website as well as his challenger, Rep. Ron Paul's "B" rating indicates past votes for restrictive legislation. This is a blatant lie! When asked for the rating criteria, the NRA said they didn't publish one. According to Penny Langford Freeman, an aide to Congressman Paul, the lowered rating appears to be payback for Congressman Paul's opposition to the NRA's compromise gun locks legislation, which was added to a clean firearms manufacturer's protection bill.
I would say the NRA just DON"T like Ron Paul.
Beats the Hell out of me why a pro-gun group could not agree with Paul's stance on gun issues, but I'm sure you will tell me