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Report: Clay Aiken ‘actively considering’ run for U.S. House

Report: Clay Aiken ‘actively considering’ run for U.S. House

Former “American Idol” finalist Clay Aiken is actively considering a bid to represent North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives, according to a report by the Washington Blade.

Charles Sykes, Invision (AP)Clay Aiken
Charles Sykes, Invision (AP)
Clay Aiken

The Blade cites two democratic sources that the openly gay Raleigh, N.C., native has taken initial steps for a run, including consulting with political operatives in Washington, D.C., about a bid for the seat.

One source said Aiken, 35, has been making phone calls to gauge potential support as he works with Betsy Conti, a local political strategist who has worked with Al Gore and former North Carolina Gov. Bev Purdue.

Although it’s unclear when Aiken might formally announce a decision, the source said Aiken is “actively considering” it and “sounding and acting like a candidate.”

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Since Aiken’s appearance on “American Idol” in 2003, he has released several successful albums, launched ten tours, and has remained in the spotlight with a series of TV appearances.

He has also been involved with UNICEF since 2004 when he was appointed a U.S. Fund for UNICEF National Ambassador with a focus on ensuring children have access to education.

In 2010, Aiken appeared at a briefing on Capitol Hill on behalf of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network (GLSEN) to urge for passage of anti-bullying legislation with LGBT protections known as the Student Non-Discrimination Act and the Safe Schools Improvement Act.

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