YouTubeClay Aiken's built a successful career in Hollywood after being American Idol's runner-up in 2003, but now that he's in real politics, he has to win first place to keep moving forward towards a seat in Congress.
As of Wednesday morning, the North Carolina Democratic congressional primary race between Aiken and textile entrepreneur and former state commerce secretary Keith Crisco was too close to call, per NBC News. Both Aiken and his opponent had about 40 percent of the vote, and were trailed by licensed professional counselor Toni Morris.
The winner of North Carolina's Democratic congressional primary race will face incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers in November.
So why is Aiken, a self-described eighth-generation North Carolinian, hoping to win the Democratic primary and face off with Rep. Ellmers? According the his official campaign site, he "would like to see a government that works for the people" and "knows change is possible."
And when Aiken, a trained special education teacher and advocate for those with disabilities, came under fire from some of his political opponents, his former Idol competitor Ruben Studdard spoke out in his defense.
"I'm proud to call him my friend, but you'll be proud to call him your congressman," said Studdard in an ad, sponsored by Aiken's campaign. "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."
We should know soon whether or not Democrats in the Tar Heel state voted Aiken forward to the next round!