News
Clay Aiken ‘actively considering’ run for Congress: sources
‘American Idol’ alum has reportedly talked to DCCC about a bid
Clay Aiken is “actively considering” a run for Congress, sources say. (Washington Blade file photo by Michael Key)
Gay singer and “American Idol” runner-up Clay Aiken is actively considering a bid to represent North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district in the U.S. House, according to two Democratic sources familiar with his plans.
The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the 35-year-old Raleigh native has taken initial steps for a run, including consulting with political operatives in Washington, D.C., about a bid for the seat.
One Democratic source said Aiken made phone calls to gauge support, talked to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and has met with figures in Raleigh, N.C., about a potential bid. 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.”
To help explore a run, the source said Aiken has been working with Betsy Conti, a Raleigh-based political strategist who’s worked for former North Carolina Gov. Bev Purdue and Democratic presidential nominee Al Gore in addition to serving as Maryland’s deputy labor secretary in the Glendening administration. It’s unclear whether Aiken has formally hired her or anyone else to help with his bid.
Another Democratic source said Aiken was in D.C. last month meeting with pollsters at Hart Research Associates to examine polling data with one of the partners at the firm.
The DCCC hasn’t responded to multiple requests to comment about a potential Aiken candidacy in the past few weeks. Neither Conti nor the Hart Research Associates responded to the Blade’s request for comment on Thursday.
Aiken himself was unable to be reached for comment. A Los Angeles-based management company known as the Firm, which reportedly represented Aiken for his music career in the last decade, didn’t respond to a request for comment.
Aiken wouldn’t be the only candidate on the Democratic side to pursue a run for the House seat, which is currently occupied by Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-N.C.). Former North Carolina Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco is expected to formally announce his candidacy on Monday. He formed a campaign committee to explore a run in December.
The filing deadline to participate in the primary is Feb. 28. The primary itself in North Carolina is set for May 6.
Although the polls indicate Republicans may be favored as the mid-term elections approach on a general ballot, the Democratic nominee — whether it’s Aiken, Crisco or someone else — may have a shot at the seat, which comprises Raleigh and was controlled by Democrats before the Republican surge in 2010. A House Democratic aide, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, described the second congressional district as a “winnable seat” for Democrats.
After finishing in second-place on Fox’s “American Idol” in 2003, Aiken used the prominence he gained from performing on the show to launch a successful music and Broadway career. He’s sold more than six millions copies of his albums, and, according to Forbes, made $1.5 million in 2010.
Aiken has also drawn on his fame to help promote causes as an activist. He co-founded the the National Inclusion Project, formerly the Bubel/Aiken Foundation, which seeks to help children with disabilities. Tapped as a national ambassador for the United States Fund for UNICEF in 2004, Aiken has travelled to Afghanistan, Indonesia, Uganda, Mexico, Kenya and Somalia as part of aid missions.
The singer has also taken part in LGBT activism. In 2010, the singer appeared at a briefing on Capitol Hill on behalf of the Gay, Lesbian & Straight Education Network, or 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.
“Like many kids now in middle schools and high schools, I was bullied,” Aiken said at the time. “I was picked on, I was called gay, I was called fag, I was called sissy, you name it. Fortunately, I was able to overcome it and live through it because of a number of friends who were supportive of me.”
Dogged by rumors about his sexual orientation during his appearance on “American Idol” and over the course of his musical career afterward, Aiken came out as a gay in 2008 by appearing on the cover of “People” magazine with his then-infant son Parker Foster Aiken.
“It was the first decision I made as a father,” Aiken told the magazine. “I cannot raise a child to lie or to hide things. I wasn’t raised that way, and I’m not going to raise a child to do that.”
Local
FreeState Justice outlines 2022 legislative priorities
Bills introduced to repeal ‘unnatural or perverted sexual practice’ law
FreeState Justice has outlined its legislative priorities for the Maryland General Assembly’s 2022 legislative session that began on Jan. 12.
State Sen. Clarence Lam (D-Baltimore and Harford Counties) has introduced Senate Bill 22, which would repeal a provision of Maryland law that bans “unnatural or perverted sexual practice.” State Dels. David Moon (D-Montgomery County), Lorig Charkoudian (D-Montgomery County) and Julie Palakovich Carr (D-Montgomery County) have introduced an identical bill in the House of Delegates.
A bill that repealed Maryland’s sodomy law took effect in 2020 without Republican Gov. Larry Hogan’s signature, but the “unnatural or perverted sexual practice” provision that criminalizes oral sex and bestiality remains in place.
FreeState Justice Policy Director C.P. Hoffman on Jan. 12 noted during a virtual briefing that prosecutors rarely bring charges under the law. Hoffman nevertheless pointed out four men who were arrested at a video store in Harford County in May 2021 were indicted under it.
“Its really just offensive that this is being used against queer people in 2021,” said Hoffman. “So we want to see it repealed.”
Hoffman and their FreeState Justice colleagues also noted the ability for transgender Marylanders to more easily obtain official documents that correspond with their gender identity is another legislative priority.
Maryland since 2019 has allowed trans and non-binary people to receive a driver’s license with an “X” gender marker.
Hoffman said FreeState Justice will support bills that would allow Marylanders to change their name on their marriage certificate without a court order or getting divorced and remarry. FreeState Justice will also back a measure that would allow trans parents to amend their child’s birth certificate to accurately reflect their gender identity.
“We’re trying to clean that up to make one consistent policy that allows for trans folks to do this,” said Hoffman.
FreeState Justice Executive Director Jeremy LaMaster during the briefing noted another legislative priority is the Inclusive Schools Act, which would require Maryland public schools to implement a uniform non-discrimination policy through the state’s Department of Education. FreeState Justice Policy Coordinator Jamie Grace Alexander highlighted the organization will also urge lawmakers to expand access to PrEP and PEP in Maryland and to support legislation that would, among other things, prohibit housing incarcerated trans women with men.
“The conditions for transgender people — especially transgender women — while they’re incarcerated are extremely grim and dark,” said Alexander.
Virginia
Mother says teen boy charged with assault in girl’s bathroom at Va. school is straight
Earlier reports that Loudoun County student was gender fluid triggered backlash
In a little-noticed interview last November with the British online newspaper, DailyMail.com, the mother of a 15-year-old boy charged with sexually assaulting a girl last May in the girl’s bathroom at a Loudoun County, Va., high school that the two students attended said her son identifies as heterosexual.
The May 28, 2021, sexual assault first surfaced in the news media in October at the same time law enforcement authorities disclosed that the boy allegedly sexually assaulted a girl on Oct. 6 in a vacant classroom at another high school to which he was transferred.
The disclosure of the two assaults triggered a furious backlash by some parents and conservative political activists against a Virginia school policy allowing transgender and gender fluid students to use the bathroom that conforms to their gender identity.
“First of all, he is not transgender,” the boy’s mother told DailyMail.com in a Nov. 2 interview. “And I think this is all doing an extreme disservice to those students who actually identify as transgender,” the newspaper quoted her as saying.
The mother, who agreed to the interview on grounds that she was not identified to protect the identity of her son, said her son identifies as heterosexual and absolutely does not identify as female.
LGBTQ activists have said the backlash against both the Virginia state and Loudoun County transgender non-discrimination policies — which spread to school districts across the country that have similar policies — was fueled by what they have said all along was unsubstantiated claims that the boy was transgender or gender fluid.
Conservative activists who strongly oppose the school systems’ trans supportive bathroom policies have said it was those policies that enabled the 15-year-old boy, who police say was wearing a skirt at the time of the May 28 sexual assault incident, to enter the girl’s bathroom to target the girl.
Since that time, testimony in a Loudoun County Juvenile Court where the boy was being prosecuted revealed that the 14-year-old girl who brought the charges against him said she and the boy had two consenting sexual encounters in a girl’s bathroom at Stone Bridge High School in Ashburn, Va., prior to the incident in which the boy allegedly assaulted her.
According to the Washington Post, whose reporter attended one of the juvenile court hearings, the girl testified that she agreed to meet the boy in the girl’s bathroom after he requested a third sexual encounter there, but she told him she did not want to have sex at that time.
“The girl previously testified in court that the defendant threw her to the ground in the bathroom and forced her to perform two sexual acts on him after she told him that she was not interested in sex on that occasion,” the Post reported in a story last week about the final outcome of the case.
At a Jan. 12 sentencing hearing, Loudoun County Juvenile Court Chief Judge Pamela Brooks placed the boy on the Virginia sex offender registry for life, the Post reported. After ruling in an earlier hearing in November that the evidence confirmed that the boy was responsible for sexually assaulting the two girls, Brooks sentenced the boy to a residential treatment facility rather than a juvenile detention facility and required that he remain on probation until he turns 18, the Post reported.
“He’s a 15-year-old boy that wanted to have sex in the bathroom, with somebody that was willing,” the boy’s mother told DailyMaiI.com. “And they’re twisting this just enough to make it a political hot button issue,” she said.
In her interview with the newspaper, the mother said her son wasn’t gender fluid despite the reports, which she confirms, that he wore a skirt at the time of the first of the two sexual assaults.
“He would wear a skirt one day and then the next day, he would wear jeans and a T-shirt, a Polo or hoodie,” she told the newspaper. “He was trying to find himself and that involved all kinds of styles. I believe he was doing it because it gave him attention he desperately needed and sought,” she said.
The mother acknowledged in the interview that her son was deeply troubled, saying he had a long history of misbehavior, including sending nude photos of himself to a girl when he was in the fifth grade.
On Jan. 12, the same day as the boy’s sentencing hearing, Virginia House of Delegates member John Avoli (R-Stanton) introduced a bill calling for restricting the ability of transgender students from using bathrooms and other facilities in public schools that are consistent with their gender identity.
A separate bill introduced last month by Virginia State Sen. Travis Hackworth (R-Tazewell County) calls for eliminating the requirement that Virginia school districts adopt the state Department of Education’s nondiscrimination policies for trans and non-binary students.
Although Virginia’s newly inaugurated Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin and the GOP-controlled House of Delegates could move to advance the two bills, LGBTQ activists note that the state Senate remains in Democratic control and would block the two bills from being approved by the General Assembly.
Cris Candice Tuck, president of the LGBTQ group Equality Loudoun, told the Blade she expects opponents of LGBTQ nondiscrimination policies in the Loudoun County Public Schools and other school systems in Virginia to continue to use the sexual assault case of the Loudoun boy as a pretext to repeal LGBTQ and trans supportive policies.
“We firmly believe it should have absolutely no bearing as the perpetrator was not transgender, non-binary, or gender fluid, and so that doesn’t apply to this policy at all,” Tuck said. “A single conviction of an individual who is not even part of the group in question is no reason to invalidate the rights and expose to potential violence the hundreds of students who identify as transgender or non-binary,” Tuck said in an email message.
“Currently, the Catholic Church, the Boy Scouts of America, and hundreds of cisgender teachers, clergy, and coaches are embroiled in legal battles nationwide involving sexual molestation, rape, and abuse of children across the country that has been ongoing for decades,” Tuck said. “Yet no one is proposing restroom restrictions for any of those groups. A double standard cannot exist for the LGBTQ+ based on fear mongering, misinformation, and discrimination.”
Local
Anti-LGBTQ group claims Va. marriage amendment repeal will legalize polygamy
State Sen. Adam Ebbin rejected claim during committee hearing
A representative of an anti-LGBTQ group on Tuesday said the repeal of Virginia’s constitutional amendment that defines marriage as between a man and a woman would pave the way for the legalization of polygamy in the state.
“There are some, at least, very legitimate concerns about whether this would actually legalize polygamy, among other forms of marriage,” said Family Foundation of Virginia Legal Counsel Josh Hetzler.
Hetzler made the comment during a Virginia Senate Privileges and Elections Committee hearing on state Sen. Adam Ebbin (D-Alexandria)’s resolution to repeal the Marshall-Newman Amendment. Ebbin, who is the only openly gay member of the Virginia Senate, in response to the claim noted polygamy is a crime under Virginia and federal law.
“I take offense to the Family Foundation’s characterization that this would allow polygamy,” said Ebbin. “This has nothing to do with polygamy, what this has to do with is equality.”
Carol Schall, who, along with her wife, Mary Townley, joined a federal lawsuit that paved the way for marriage equality in Virginia, and outgoing Equality Virginia Executive Director Vee Lamneck are among those who testified in support of the resolution. The committee approved it by a 10-5 vote margin.
Virginia voters approved the Marshall-Newman Amendment in 2006.
Same-sex couples have been able to legally marry in Virginia since 2014.
The General Assembly last year approved a resolution that seeks to repeal the Marshall-Newman Amendment. It must pass in two successive legislatures before it can go to the ballot.
Ebbin earlier this month told the Washington Blade he remains “hopeful” the resolution will pass in the Democratic-controlled state Senate. Prospects that the resolution will pass in the Republican-controlled state House of Delegates are far less certain.
Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin before his election reiterated his opposition to marriage equality. Youngkin, however, stressed it is “legally acceptable” in Virginia and he would “support that” as governor.
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Mary Kay Farmer
January 3, 2014 at 3:02 am
He would be an excellant congrssman just will greatly miss his singng
LJ
January 3, 2014 at 2:46 pm
You might be a moron.
Benji
January 3, 2014 at 5:26 pm
No, that might be you. Anyone who knows anything about the guy knows that he has always been active in political issues, is very articulate, outspoken & impassioned. He also has a great voice.
Jackson
January 3, 2014 at 9:02 pm
What makes him excellent? What are his qualifications? Being “gay” isn’t exactly a qualification but it seems like that is the platform the democratic party has chosen for him. Has he ever run a business? Does he have an education (higher degree)? The article appears to be silent on these important matters. Sorry but “gay” isn’t a reason to elect or not elect someone.
Drew
January 4, 2014 at 1:16 am
Did Barry Manilow change his name??
Patrick Henry
January 4, 2014 at 10:31 am
Of couse his homosexual hook up at a Holiday Inn in Garner, NC located at 40/42 will have no bearing on whether he will defeat the current incumbent. The 2nd is very socially conservative has served her consituents well. Her defeat of the drunken moron Bob Etheridge was a God Send. No, Clay keep your money, it would be a waste to even try.
Kathleen Lynch
January 2, 2014 at 10:14 pm
Clay would be amazing in Congress or any other political position. is extremely proud to be from North Carolina and will represent the state well. He is smart, considerate, honest and down to earth. What a welcome change that would bring!
Shelley Anderson
January 3, 2014 at 3:16 am
Bravo. I hope he runs.
Shelley Anderson
January 3, 2014 at 3:16 am
Bravo. I hope he runs.
Dorothy M Raftery
January 3, 2014 at 3:55 am
He would make a great congressman. He's got it all wrapped in one package. Good luck Clay!!!!
Jen
January 3, 2014 at 1:19 pm
Dorothy, can you tell us what it is about Clay Aiken that would make a good congressman?
JoJo
January 3, 2014 at 3:03 pm
And exactly what qualification does he have for this position or are you so dumbed down that you don’t value actual “qualification” in your leaders?
Lauren
January 4, 2014 at 7:39 pm
I think all the “Bravo” “Bravo” chatter is a wink to the major tv channel that would be covering his run..
Hot political tip .. don’t start calling Duck Dynasty “vile”..
Christian Joy Cortes
January 3, 2014 at 4:29 am
He will definitely help more people every now and then. Hope he can make it, and good-luck to him..=)
Mumm Fums
January 3, 2014 at 11:01 am
Wish he would run in my NC District!
Joanne Padowicz Bewley
January 3, 2014 at 12:26 pm
Where does he stand on separation of church and state?
Joanne Padowicz Bewley
January 3, 2014 at 12:26 pm
Where does he stand on separation of church and state?
Benji
January 3, 2014 at 5:29 pm
He was raised a conservative Christian, but disagrees with any one religion dominating the political discourse. Socially, he’s more liberal.
Joyce Rasic Etter
January 3, 2014 at 2:29 pm
They need to include that he is well educated, knowledgable, and intelligent.
dave
January 3, 2014 at 10:38 am
What a joke. I suppose he can’t be much worse than the closet homos, crypto jews and vatican agents currently wrecking up the joint.
Scoon Jenkins
January 3, 2014 at 10:45 am
LOL
Dave Turner
January 3, 2014 at 4:04 pm
Honestly, beyond the name recognition and his sexuality, what does he bring to the race that someone else doesn't?
Anybody is able to run for congress but he's going to be one tiny fish in a big sea. Unless he's hoping to parlay his sexual identity in to camera time, he's going to get lost in that sea should he win.
sick of liberals
January 3, 2014 at 11:41 am
What a bunch of crap, and the low info voters here are all ready to vote for him.I guess if he decides to run for POTUS he can have Adam Lambert as his first…whatever the hell he is.
Patrick Henry
January 4, 2014 at 10:35 am
LOL, don’t worry he’ll never get in. Too much baggage here in the 2nd District to defeat well-respected Renee Elmers
Tom Wharton
January 3, 2014 at 4:50 pm
this [email protected] is not gonna win. He's got ZERO qualifications, except he's a [email protected]
Jen
January 3, 2014 at 1:18 pm
Tom Wharton, that’s uncalled for. Who cares if he’s gay as long as he adheres to the constitution!
Zach
January 3, 2014 at 2:49 pm
Tom go crawl under the bridge you came from, and please drown yourself in the river it crosses. #Troll
Ack Blauvelt
January 3, 2014 at 4:59 pm
I don't think he'll be running so much as prancing.
Ack Blauvelt
January 3, 2014 at 4:59 pm
I don't think he'll be running so much as prancing.
Ack Blauvelt
January 3, 2014 at 4:59 pm
I don't think he'll be running so much as prancing.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 5:09 pm
Oh great. Just what we need another liberal in Washington.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 5:09 pm
Oh great. Just what we need another liberal in Washington.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 5:09 pm
Oh great. Just what we need another liberal in Washington.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 5:09 pm
Oh great. Just what we need another liberal in Washington.
Tim
January 3, 2014 at 12:22 pm
great, another person out of touch with the working person.
APINELLI66
January 3, 2014 at 12:32 pm
THIS LOSER WOULD FIT IN FINE WITH 99.9% OF CONGRESS!
Larry Croft
January 3, 2014 at 12:39 pm
Let’s hope he runs and the voters tell us what they really think of his ability to serve in a way he never forgets and always regrets.
Lance
January 3, 2014 at 12:54 pm
Stick to singing.
Dusty
January 3, 2014 at 1:01 pm
There was absolutely no substantive material in this article that would lead me to believe that he would be either a good or a bad congressman. Perhaps we should vet his politics before we jump on the bandwagon and vote him into congress.
doug
January 3, 2014 at 1:12 pm
luckily, he is used to coming in second
Jen
January 3, 2014 at 1:17 pm
More power to him if he understands what the Constitution is and what it means and if he intends to honor his oath to protect and defend said constitution. But since he’s running as a democrat, me thinks he has no clue what all of that even means. Sad.
Patrick Henry
January 4, 2014 at 10:37 am
Renee Elmers has all of that withot putting him into this office. If he runs I will have to vote just to vote against him!
Durpi Tude
January 3, 2014 at 1:29 pm
We don’t need any more degenerates in Congress. The ship is sinking already.
Rod
January 3, 2014 at 1:33 pm
I guess that being a gay now qualifies someone for Congress. Next, we will have President Rupaul. Come to think of it, Obama is pretty gay himself.
Rod
January 3, 2014 at 1:35 pm
I guess that being a gay is now what makes someone qualified for Congress. Next, we’ll have President Rupaul. We basically have that now with Obamanation.
Andy P
January 3, 2014 at 1:38 pm
Would like to know his stance on the issues. Hope it’s not just a run for homosexuals.
Stan
January 3, 2014 at 1:38 pm
Well he certainly meets all of the liberal criteria to run for office, eh? The sheep are going to come out in droves to vote for this one.
HM Phobe
January 3, 2014 at 1:39 pm
You probably should do this in a blue state – doubt you would win a red state.
RightStuff
January 3, 2014 at 1:45 pm
In Ancient Rome, whenever the court jesters tried to involve themselves in the government or politics, they were swiftly made to disappear. Just what I’ve heard. Not suggesting anything.
ConcernedOne
January 3, 2014 at 1:48 pm
I sure hope the kids on here saying “he would be great” “he’s got in all” are NOT allowed to vote.
I’ll ask you: HOW would he be great? What does he bring to the US Citizens? What experience? Where does he stand on the US Constitution? The State Constitution? The FIRST thing this shabby article does is call him a “Gay Singer” Wow, now that is something. Not a great singer or performer or anything else, it LABELED him by his SEXUALITY. That IS NOT a characteristic to run for political office. Nor should looks or someone who can read a teleprompter.
Get a clue!
Benji
January 3, 2014 at 5:33 pm
Why don’t YOU get a clue? Perhaps the people saying they’d vote for him actually know more about him than you. Ever think of that? He has many qualifications – look them up.
Patrick Henry
January 4, 2014 at 10:40 am
He’ll bring absolutely nothing to our District, Of course my only concern is that this district did elect the drunk Bob Etheridge a few times. I’m sure a few low information voters will be trying to vote American Idol style
ONTIME
January 3, 2014 at 1:49 pm
Why not just enjoy the money you make thru capitalism and then start your own foundation and stay out of the deemer crook lair, so your life won’t get more screwed up?
Really stupid thinking by a meat head..
Nancy
January 3, 2014 at 1:49 pm
This amazes me how people are gushing over this guy running for Congress. What makes him so great – singing ability (dubious at best) doesn’t equate with ability to get this country out of its problems. I bet every one of you hang on every morsel Hollywood stars say about politics .. as if they are experts also. This is the sad state our country has come to.
Allergic to Republican Hypocrites
January 3, 2014 at 8:13 pm
Did you have this sort of negative attitude about Ronald ‘no qualification other than B-movie actor’ Reagan running for office? Or Gopher? Or Ah-nuld?
Flannigan McGaffigan
January 3, 2014 at 2:15 pm
Clay Aiken’s credentials for government leadership are:
1) Practicing homosexual
2) Sings well
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 7:19 pm
He can sing…of course he should run. Al Franken can make people laugh…of course he should run. Barack Obama can agitate a community…of course he should run. In the world of pop culture, any "fame" makes you qualified and probably a shoo-in. My goodness, if the public recognizes your name, what else do you need??? (Unfortunately…)
deskboy
January 3, 2014 at 2:20 pm
I bet he sings the national anthem at Pinkskins games
Hans
January 3, 2014 at 2:22 pm
Yah, like we need another inexperienced stupid congressman. But then the stupid “sheep” will probably vote him in just as they did Obummer.
Sylvia Tennie Parkey
January 3, 2014 at 7:23 pm
Just what qualificationsdo you have except to TRYto tear someone down.It shows just how ignorant you sound & are.What have you done to help ANYONE. Nothing, I'm sure.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 7:23 pm
He would not get my vote!
David Hedricks
January 3, 2014 at 2:27 pm
I’m sure Barney Frank is quite pleased!
Mike Yancey
January 3, 2014 at 7:28 pm
Singing and orientation don't matter. I love him as an entertainer, but he'll be just anothe big government liberal.
Dave Owen
January 3, 2014 at 7:32 pm
Worked for algore? Next.
Sabrina Dively
January 3, 2014 at 7:33 pm
I believe you're a fraud Tom Wharton. But if I'm wrong- as a conservative I support your right to free speech and religious convictions just as I support Mr. Aiken s choice to freely love and share a life with whoever he chooses. It's all about Liberty.
Jack Blair
January 3, 2014 at 7:38 pm
Just what we need. Another Homo in a position of legislation to further their agenda.
Jack Blair
January 3, 2014 at 7:40 pm
I agree with Tom. He's a Fag
Robert H Street
January 4, 2014 at 5:03 am
The Washington Blade is a gay newspaper. Your comments are highly offensive. If you don’t like gays don’t come here.
Delta
January 4, 2014 at 4:44 pm
LMFAO !!!!! Now that’s funny
Kaya Hund
January 3, 2014 at 7:43 pm
I have no problem with Clay running for Congress — he'd certainly do a better job than Nancy Pelosi.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 7:44 pm
And exactly what would make him an excellent Congressman? Because he's gay?
Allergic to Republican Hypocrites
January 3, 2014 at 8:15 pm
That would be more qualification for office – or anything for that matter – than Sarah Palin.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 7:45 pm
So was Hitler.
John Smith
January 3, 2014 at 7:46 pm
Thats all we need. Another defect in government. Reckon him & Lindsay Graham will be "best buds" after a bit.
Robert Trip
January 3, 2014 at 7:48 pm
I don't believe he's quite gay enough.
But, close.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 7:48 pm
Sabrina Dively Except when your convictions tell you to sand against his homosexuality. Then your free speech becomes hate speech according to the left and must be squashed. Can't have it just one way Sabrina.
Pippa
January 3, 2014 at 2:50 pm
The Gay agenda is being forced on America! Gay marriage, gay boy scouts, transgender bathrooms in elementary school….the moral decay of this nation is happening before our eyes!!!
Free Man
January 3, 2014 at 2:50 pm
Sexuality has nothing to do with how I vote but there was one thing in this article that eliminates Clay from getting any support from me and hopefully any other sane person who doesn’t vote blindly.
Clay has been actively working with Al Gore. Anyone who works with Al Gore loses a lot of creditibilty. It would be really easy to pick apart any false ideology that comes from these lying leeches.
I hope clay distances himself as much as possible from Al Gore and when he gets asked his political views I hope he is honest,
Benji
January 3, 2014 at 5:36 pm
You need to learn to read. I doubt he’s even met Al Gore. However, a political strategist he’s been talking with WORKED with Al Gore. 2 degrees of seperation – get it?
Sabrina Dively
January 3, 2014 at 7:51 pm
Hopefully he believes the state shall not impose a religion on the citizens but that the citizens are free to practice their religion without persecution and prejudice. It's all about Liberty.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 7:52 pm
Dorothy: I don't care about his "package" as maybe some of his gay supporters do. I care about his qualifications of which he has none. Sorry, being gay doesn't rank.
Reva Toby
January 3, 2014 at 7:52 pm
Clay mates are out in full force. He's smart, I'll give you that, but we don't need another gay person running based on their sexual orientation.
Deb
January 3, 2014 at 2:53 pm
What qualifications does he have for the office? What would make him an excellent congressman? I’d want more from my congressperson than being able to sing.
William Collier
January 3, 2014 at 7:57 pm
What are his positions? That's all that matters.
Gomorrah
January 3, 2014 at 3:06 pm
Public or behind closed doors? Perhaps they’re the same?
Lloyd Hargett
January 3, 2014 at 8:01 pm
Ever since Al Franken stole his election, every moron in the world thinks he can be a congressman. And judging from the incumbents, it doesn't take much to be one, I guess. But first go comb your hair . . .
Faye Schull
January 3, 2014 at 3:09 pm
Can he really get elected with a “There’s Something About Mary” Cameron Diaz hairdo.
Bradley Goodrich
January 3, 2014 at 8:09 pm
Jack Blair Another "conservative" who wants government to leave people alone — unless it's to peek in their bedrooms or orifices.
Bob White
January 3, 2014 at 8:10 pm
Isn't that kind of personal?
Emilie Handschyn
January 3, 2014 at 8:11 pm
Oh goody another father raising a child into mental chaos and confusion. As for qualifications, as others are stating, none are needed as long as you are a celebrity and gay! Brains can be left at the door.
Kevin Mandrews
January 3, 2014 at 8:13 pm
Tom and Jack should get a room!
Kevin Mandrews
January 3, 2014 at 8:13 pm
Tom and Jack should get a room!
Don Benghazi Hooker
January 3, 2014 at 8:19 pm
Well, in today's America, being a h0m0sexua! is all that matters. That's how we wind up with an idiot like 0bama in office.
Cj Jones
January 3, 2014 at 8:21 pm
He's a great candidate for obtuse liberal voters who don't care about experience or qualifications.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 8:23 pm
He'll fit right in with that crowd.
Terry Davis
January 3, 2014 at 8:24 pm
Oh gosh, another celebrity that thinks they can help!
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 8:26 pm
Who says? At least his filibusters will be entertaining as he sings for 36 hours straight.
Jason Weiers
January 3, 2014 at 8:27 pm
Um, Mitt Romney won this district by 15.5%. No Democrat will win this district (especially Aiken), even if it's a blue waive of 2008 proportions.
Gunny G
January 3, 2014 at 3:27 pm
Wow, another UNQUALIFIED idiot who thinks he can be a Congcritter. Well, he’s no dumber than Hank Johnson or Maxine Waters or Sheila Jackson-Lee or Nutsy Baloney.
Joan Lussier
January 3, 2014 at 8:28 pm
Sabrina Dively Ditto that !!
Jeffrey Everhart
January 3, 2014 at 8:30 pm
What qualifications did Barack Obummer have before he ran for President?
Chris Hoobs
January 3, 2014 at 8:31 pm
Dorothy, just exactly why do you think he'd make a great Congressman? What are his credentials? What are his stands on issues? What has he ever done? (American Idol doesn't count)
William Mc Burney
January 3, 2014 at 8:35 pm
Sabrina Dively
Well you can see what that kind of Liberality is doing to our Country ! and you dear are not a conservative so come out of the closet your self.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 8:37 pm
Bradley Goodrich Or on floats in parades in public, right Braddy?
David Ortiz
January 3, 2014 at 8:42 pm
Bradley Goodrich oh so i take it you dont support govt funding for birth control pills
David Ortiz
January 3, 2014 at 8:46 pm
Great now we can have a Glee Congress
Preston Smith
January 3, 2014 at 8:50 pm
He cant win… I can care less that he choose to reveal his personal sexual behavior to the public, he still wont win…
Pamela Thomas Hickey
January 3, 2014 at 8:53 pm
He looks like he's 12 years old, no way. I couldn't care less that he's gay. Look what happened the last time Americans voted based on emotions rather then qualifications.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 8:55 pm
Atleast it's not GOP Cult nut jobs
Katrina Ellen
January 3, 2014 at 8:59 pm
So his singing and acting career is at a dead end, no more reality shows coming up, why not give it a go as a politician.
Bob Smogango
January 3, 2014 at 8:59 pm
Sylvia Tennie Parkey He's just afraid and I'm sure maybe in his next lifetime he might be gay to overcome his adversity to being gay. Maybe that'll change his mind. Some people don't have a problem with other people's lifestyle as long as it doesn't infringe on someone else's. Someone being gay has nothing to do with me, so that's THEIR thing. Obviously, Tom can't seem to get past his backwards a$$ mentality of other people. Oh well.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 9:00 pm
Go Clay!!! I want you and all of your pin headed Demroids to spend large $ to help NC's economy. Then you can sing sad songs at your concession speach..
John Fogarty
January 3, 2014 at 9:01 pm
Doggie and knees
Cyndy Martin
January 3, 2014 at 9:01 pm
Well what qualifications did Barry have?
Don Benghazi Hooker
January 3, 2014 at 9:02 pm
Where is that mentioned in the Constitution? Maybe you should start by reading it first.
Bob Smogango
January 3, 2014 at 9:02 pm
At least it's better than a son of a Nazi, who is friends with Nazi criminals, that used to be a heavy pot smoker, steroid dealer, and someone that cheats on his wife, has countless number of sexual harassment issues. For the State of California, we had Arnold Schwarzenegger and all he did was waste OTHER people's money to promote his MASSIVE ego and he promoted his agenda which was to make pot legal, make crooked deals, and not help the State. Glad he's gone, he should have never been allowed to run for ANY public office due to his Nazi connections.
John Fogarty
January 3, 2014 at 9:03 pm
You can't even spell so your opinion is really important!
Christopher Mahoney
January 3, 2014 at 9:08 pm
I thought Wayne newton lived in Nevada.
Bradley Goodrich
January 3, 2014 at 9:11 pm
You mean like top or bottom? Or this issues?
Bradley Goodrich
January 3, 2014 at 9:11 pm
You mean like top or bottom? Or this issues?
Paul Meuse
January 3, 2014 at 9:13 pm
Bent over with his a$$ in the air .
Bradley Goodrich
January 3, 2014 at 9:14 pm
It depends on what context. If you are Sandra Fluke, a lazy, 30 year-old student who can well afford to buy her own, then no.
Michael David Davis
January 3, 2014 at 9:15 pm
Any democrat talking about "cult nut jobs" is so delusionsal (not to mention so incredibly stupid) that his/her opinion is automatically absurd. Are there ANY libs left out there who are not totally lacking in self-awareness?
Michael David Davis
January 3, 2014 at 9:16 pm
name recognition in this case will not be a help
Michael David Davis
January 3, 2014 at 9:17 pm
not sure—-probably doggie-style is his fave though
Fred W Dixon Jr
January 3, 2014 at 9:17 pm
He has zero chance in a district that is becoming more Republican.
Fred W Dixon Jr
January 3, 2014 at 9:19 pm
More like best "butts"
Al Schork
January 3, 2014 at 9:25 pm
He surely wouldn't suck any worse than Bwarney Fhwank, or would he?
Joshua Embrey
January 3, 2014 at 9:38 pm
He's most likely split.
Joshua Embrey
January 3, 2014 at 9:38 pm
He's most likely split.
Johnny LaQuayshiateefah Doe
January 3, 2014 at 9:39 pm
Great, another mush minded pop culture puppet who thinks that, because he is the momentary fetish to which clueless teenagers masturbate,, he actually has qualified thoughts on policy. Gaga for President, too.
Connie Johnson Waterman
January 3, 2014 at 9:44 pm
N.C and the South is being infiltrated by liberals from the NE. They are running for town council/school boards, e.g. Whether they lare qualified makes no difference (look at Obama – the community agitator/he got elected w/NO experience in anything). It is all about taking over the South & taking over every aspect of citizens lives, granting illegals amnesty, destroying the institution of marriage, further destroying the family unit.(80% of black babies are born out of wedlock/have no daddys but do get $$$ for those babies, 45%latinos out of wedlock, 24% white babies out of wedlock & encouraged by libs/dems all to make them become dependents to the democrat party). But hey, dems/libs can lie to get elected then do what obama is doing – disregard laws they don't like & make up new ones as they see fit. NEVER vote democrat/liberal/progressive/socialists unless you want to live like cubans!
Jim Pietrowski
January 3, 2014 at 9:49 pm
BWAQHAHHAHAHHAHAAA! another fruitcake liberal. Just what would this freak bring to the table??
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 9:49 pm
No more democrats, please. The democrats have done enough damage and it will take years to repair. We don't need any more democrats, gay or straight. Clay – go away!
Johnny LaQuayshiateefah Doe
January 3, 2014 at 9:49 pm
Sabrina Dively
Aw, that was so cute and sweet. Perhaps Hallmark work grimey anal penetration themes into more of their vignettes of romance.
Barry Cole
January 3, 2014 at 10:01 pm
Sabrina Dively You know that's highly unlikely. He will want people to follow the Church of State, AKA Political Correctness.
Barry Cole
January 3, 2014 at 10:02 pm
You did say "fruitcake".
Joe Campbell
January 3, 2014 at 10:03 pm
I would never knowingly vote for a queer…
Idan Camenforte
January 3, 2014 at 10:12 pm
Great! One more gay advocate in congress. What's his platform? Queer eye for the straight democratic voter?
Dominic
January 3, 2014 at 5:14 pm
Enough with the obsession over who is gay or not. Simply being gay does not qualify you for anything! I am so sick and tired of hearing about who’s a homosexual, who’s not, who said this about homosexuals, who said that. Give it a rest already.
Kyle Ryan McGuire
January 3, 2014 at 10:19 pm
Tom, I'll never vote for a Democrat, but I'm embarrassed for you. You really are an idiot.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 10:35 pm
Clay Aiken… What qualifications, besides sucking does he have? Whoops. Forgot. Anymore thats all you need.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 10:39 pm
I am still trying to figure out how liberals, about 10-15 percent of the population keep winning elections against a much vaster amount in population. Does their single votes count for 4,5,6,7 votes?
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 10:43 pm
Really. Out of here and back to a normal site with normal people.
Sami
January 3, 2014 at 5:44 pm
I saw Clay once on FACE THE NATION – he really surprised me with his solid grounding in the issues that day. I wouldn’t count him out. Everyone laughed at Sonny Bono & he turned out to be a very popular Congressman in his district.
Allergic to Republican Hypocrites
January 3, 2014 at 8:17 pm
So you’re suggesting that Clay not take any skiing trips if elected?
Brian Thomas
January 3, 2014 at 10:47 pm
Does he understand that he isn't going up against 11 other hopefuls and that votes are not cast by calling a 1-800 number at the end of all the other contestants songs?
Barbara Dunphy Mazzocca
January 3, 2014 at 10:50 pm
Clay, go back to the special ed kids, they need you. Seriously, you are great with them.
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 10:56 pm
oooooooo mmmmmmmmmmmmmm ggggggggggggggggg!!!!!!!!! but he can sing soooo good.
NC you craZE!
Anonymous
January 3, 2014 at 11:07 pm
Of course he should run. The democrats need Village People to secure their GL standings in the delusional, and rectal avenues of distorted lifestyles.
Patrick A. Tierney
January 3, 2014 at 11:13 pm
His hair looks as if someone stuck something in his butt!!
Patrick A. Tierney
January 3, 2014 at 11:13 pm
His hair looks as if someone stuck something in his butt!!
Carolyn Cancilla Yellis
January 3, 2014 at 11:15 pm
I can't beleive the people here saying that Aitken would make a great Congressman? Didn't you idots learn from the last time(s) YOU voted in a person with NO experience? Yes. I mean YOUR leader. Just tell me one thing that make4s Airken qualificated to be a US Congressman? Thought so. you can't name one. Please please please don't vote if you are NOT informed. Politicians are powerful and we need leadership; NOT idolism. IMHO
Peggie Raftery McCormack
January 3, 2014 at 11:20 pm
Check out what Clay had done since Idol… And back away from my Mother both of you
gregorious
January 3, 2014 at 7:03 pm
I’d say most politicians make bad politicians. He’s gay, an entertainer, not a veteran, never ran a business, as far as anyone knows never studied history, economics, civics, law or foreign affairs… THE PERFECT CANDIDATE FOR OUR CURRENT POLITICAL CLIMATE AND CULTURE.
Dayna Gilbert
January 3, 2014 at 11:20 pm
no more celebrity politicians… have we learned nothing from Arnold, Al Franken, among others. It does not matter the party, most celebrities make bad politicians.
Dayna Gilbert
January 3, 2014 at 11:22 pm
other than your derogatory term i agree with you 100%.
Dayna Gilbert
January 3, 2014 at 11:24 pm
Sylvia Tennie Parkey hon i disagree with his terminology, but aiken has nothing to bring to the table… he is a musician… nothing more.
Dayna Gilbert
January 3, 2014 at 11:28 pm
Don Benghazi Hooker we should have not ended up with Obama do not blame me, i voted for McCain and Palin.
Falsk Konto
January 3, 2014 at 11:32 pm
At a time when this country is in desperate need of leaders to turn the economy around, address a crippling debt, and open up opportunities for new business (especially in manufacturing), do we get an economist, a business leader, or an academic? No, we get a jester….
Russ
January 3, 2014 at 6:33 pm
I’m glad he is used to finishing second.
Juan Mophus Beeber
January 3, 2014 at 11:34 pm
I don't really see his orientation being an issue in NC. While there certainly is some very conservative folks in NC, on the whole its a moderate state more concerned with character than preferences. Personally, I don't think he has a resume that supports a run for Congress and would probably be destroyed by the 'machine' of either party.
Patrick Henry
January 4, 2014 at 10:45 am
You don’t live in the 2nd District. NC is a very diverse state. The 2nd is a rural area for the most part touching some parts of Raleigh but not the populated areas. So as a Red State that has a Republican HOuse Senate and Governor, voted against the tyrant last time in the White House, With Kay HAgan already on the ropes for her Senate seat down under 40% without a Republican challenger yet. He has zero chance, unless there is stuffing the ballot box American Idol Style voting doesnt count in Elections unless you are B Obama
Judy Foley
January 3, 2014 at 11:34 pm
Why in the hell do they have to start a sentence off with "A Gay singer" ? What the hell is up with that?. They never did that to Elton John.
Christopher Morris
January 3, 2014 at 11:35 pm
Run Girl Run!
Mark Rogers
January 3, 2014 at 11:36 pm
Just what we need. Lol!!
Juan Mophus Beeber
January 3, 2014 at 11:36 pm
yarply12 You are forgetting the 'other' liberals. The dead ones, the imaginary ones, the multiple voters, the graveyard names, etc. They account for over 40% of the liberal vote in most elections.
Juan Mophus Beeber
January 3, 2014 at 11:38 pm
unixfly666, you folks have an illegal in the white house that to this day HIDES all of his academic records, has multiple SSN's, breaks the law regularly, vacations and golfs more than all of his predecessors combined and you want to talk about a CULT? LOL. You would have loved Jim Jones. Him and Obama have the same charisma!
Juan Mophus Beeber
January 3, 2014 at 11:39 pm
Given the outcome of the DOMA proposition in NC, you have probably got a point.
Gary Johnson
January 3, 2014 at 11:41 pm
Great. Another fruitcake in congress. This cutie will probably make Barney Frank come out of retirement….
Lee Garen
January 3, 2014 at 11:44 pm
He'll never make it….he's a dumacrat and they're going down in the next election!
Sam
January 3, 2014 at 7:32 pm
Good thing Clay is already accustomed to coming in second.
He is not going to help Democrats with their image problem in North Carolina any.
YouGotToBeKiddingMe
January 3, 2014 at 7:36 pm
He has his homosexual agenda and that is all he has and that is not what is on the minds of 98% of American’s. Go away and don’t look back North Carolina does not need you pushing your gay agenda.
gail
January 3, 2014 at 7:42 pm
A fetish of pumping poo is not anything to do with equality . Sexual deviates who risk infecting everyone with Aids and hep a, b, c . should not be allowed near food or other people let alone children its a huge health hazard . They have the hide to say all normal people have to take away mother and father from all legal documents because it offends them , yet it offends all normal people and their children what they are doing . Anus is not made for sexual activity , ITS DISGUSTING . This is like the Jones town cult .
BAMA BADGER
January 3, 2014 at 8:24 pm
Have to admit…. A gay singer/entertainer should be more qualified than a community organizer.
Patrick Henry
January 4, 2014 at 10:33 am
How is Renee Elmers a community organizer? Her occupation is Nursing. People outside of the 2nd District of North Carolina should keep their opinions to their own state.
El gato
January 4, 2014 at 9:06 am
He heard about Obummer being on the down low, so he want’s to get into position (on his knees) to help Obummer get off. Just what we need…another boob with no qualifications or experience telling everyone else how to live. Keep the queer in the sewer where he belongs. All you sick women who like him should be ashamed of yourselves!
eilspaul
January 4, 2014 at 1:39 pm
wow.
forget owning a business, managing people, solving problems, making payroll, running a nonprofit, studying public policy, creating jobs, working in other areas of the public sector, et.al.
the dncc is now using this checklist to find “qualified” candidates:
__ appeared on reality t.v.
__ gay