Astrid Stawiarz/Getty Images, Bryan Steffy/BET/Getty Images for BETClay Aiken has the support of one celeb when it comes to his run for Congress: his American Idol pal Ruben Studdard!
Studdard, who beat Aiken on the second season of Idol, has released a radio message defending Aiken against recent political attacks from his opponents.
"I'm proud to call him my friend, but you'll be proud to call him your congressman," Ruben says in the spot. "Now one of his opponents is attacking him for not showing up for some meetings. Truth is, Clay's dedicated his life to helping people with disabilities."
He goes on, "Now Clay's foundation helps children with special needs in 35 states. That's the real Clay Aiken, and Congress needs more people like him."
Aiken's voice then takes over. "I'm Clay Aiken, and I approve this message because we already have too many Washington politicians who will say anything to get elected," says the political hopeful. "I'm running for Congress because I believe that public service should be about helping others. We need more people in Congress who believe that too."
Aiken also appeared on last night's Colbert Report to promote his campaign. "I think people are very fed up with the kind of tone-deaf representation they've had," the North Carolina resident said. "We've got a representative now who has completely ignored the people she was elected to represent."
Check out more of what Aiken has to say above!