FOX News is facing loads of criticism from Ron Paul supporters who claim the network purposely excluded the GOP presidential candidate from participating in a Jan. 6 forum scheduled on the network, which was reported first on Big Head DC on Thursday.

The forum, which will be hosted by FOX newsman Chris Wallace, was organized by the New Hampshire Republican Party, but political organizers have told Big Head DC that the decision to exclude Paul was not made by the state GOP.

When Big Head DC first reported on the debate, several Paul supporters posited that Fergus Cullen, Chairman of the New Hampshire Republican Party, was behind the exclusion. Many were especially angry that Fred Thompson was invited to be included in the forum (along with Rudy Giuliani, Mike Huckabee, John McCain and Mitt Romney) when Paul has managed to raise more money than Thompson, and is beating the candidate in some polls. 

Paul’s campaign managers are now focusing their criticism on FOX News. “Given Ron Paul’s support in New Hampshire and his recent historic fundraising success, it is outrageous that Dr. Paul would be excluded,” Paul 2008 campaign chairman Kent Snyder said in a press release issued Friday evening. “Dr. Paul has consistently polled higher in New Hampshire than some of the other candidates who have been invited.”

Snyder added, “Paul supporters should know that we are continuing to make inquiries with FOX News as to why they have apparently excluded Dr. Paul from this event.”

To date, FOX News hasn’t answered requests for comment from Big Head DC on this issue.