The failed American Idol finalist turned gay activist is considering a run for Congress as a Democrat in North Carolina. Because, well, why not? The Democrats recruiting him must have the same thinking — since they can’t recruit a qualified candidate, why not try running another celebrity?
Former “American Idol” runner-up Clay Aiken is reportedly looking at a challenge to Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.).
According to the Washington Blade, the openly gay entertainer has spoken to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, as well as prominent North Carolina Democratic strategist Betsy Conti, who worked for former North Carolina Gov. Bev Purdue and Democratic presidential nominee Al Gore.
Prior to his run on Idol, Aiken was a mild-mannered crooner and Sunday School teacher. After losing the second season final to Ruben Studdard, Aiken was more or less forced out of the closet and has since gone far left in his politics. North Carolina’s District 2 is more Republican now than it was when Ellmers was first elected, thanks to re-districting.
Aiken is likely to face scrutiny similar to that which drove another Democrat entertainer out of a Senate race in conservative Kentucky. Movie star Ashley Judd considered taking on Sen. Mitch McConnell from the left. The Golden Globe nominee was soon convinced that running for office probably wasn’t the best role for her, and she bowed out quickly.
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