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"  This morning&amp;#039;s important Clay Aiken update: The former American Idol contestant is reportedly set to enter the political arena. After all, even the worst campaign smears pale in comparison to a Simon Cowell put-down. At least, Cowell circa 2001 \u2014 he&amp;#039;s rather mellowed with age. The Washington Blade reveals Aiken is planning a run for the seat representing North Carolina&amp;#039;s 2nd congressional district in the U.S. House, currently held by Republican Rep. Renee Ellmers.  Democratic sources tell the paper Aiken has &amp;quot;made phone calls to gauge support, talked to the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and met with figures in Raleigh, N.C., about a potential bid.&amp;quot; He&amp;#039;s also believed to be working with a political strategist, because it will take more than just a few good song choices (ballads, always pick ballads) to win over the voting public this time around. Photo credit: Matthew Eisman / WireImage "^^<http://www.w3.org/2001/XMLSchema#string>
<http://www.cosmopolitan.com/politics/news/a17886/clay-aiken-american-political-idol/>