Clay Aiken Considering Run for Congress

by YOUR HEAD FAG IN CHARGE

The runner-up on the second season of American Idol is looking to get into politics, reports the Washington Blade. The 35-year-old singer would be challenging Rep. Renee Ellmbers (R-N.C.) to represent North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district. Ellmers has held the seat since 2010, the first Republican in a long line of Democrats.

Is this the face of a congressman?

Aiken has been meeting with reps from the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and other political figures in Raleigh, N.C. to gauge the level of support in the district. Aiken has yet to make any formal decision, but an unnamed source said Aiken is actively considering it and already “sounding and acting like a candidate.”

Aiken has reportedly been working with Betsy Conti, a political strategist based in Raleigh who’s worked for Al Gore and North Carolina Governor Bev Purdue. It is  unknown if Aiken has formally hired Conti.

“The polls in North Carolina show that over 60 percent of North Carolinians actually support some recognition for same-sex couples, be it civil unions or domestic partnerships,” said Aiken. “As North Carolinians see what it’s done, and what it will do, I think they will support the fact that President Obama did speak out on principle…I think we’d like to see politicians speak out on principle a little bit more.”

No word on when or if a formal announcement for Aiken’s candidacy will be made. Candidates for the May 6th primary have until February 28th to file their campaign paperwork. Aiken is facing some competition for the Democratic candidacy from former North Carolina Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco, who is expected to announce his candidacy on Monday.

Aiken with son, Parker.

Even though he only came in second place on American Idol in 2003, he has released six studio albums since and portrayed Sir Robin in the Broadway production of Spamalot for two years.

Aiken came out as gay in September 2008 when he appeared on the cover of People with his newborn son. He has since become an LGBT activist, particularly supporting anti-bullying legislation. It’s only fair Aiken fight for LGBT rights after the disservice he did when he sent those naked photos to some poor unsuspecting gay men (while he was still supposedly “straight”). All right Gayken. You make good on your gay marriage talk and maybe we’ll let you sit with us.