A wide field of candidates are in the running for Alaska’s lone U.S. House seat following the death of long time office holder Don Young, Alaska’s only representative for 49 years.
Fifty candidates in all have thrown in their hats and stocking caps, Sarah Palin among them.
Also in the running is Santa Claus.
“I don’t like getting dressed up,” Claus said. “So I’m thinking, well, if I went to Congress, maybe I should just wear the Santa suit.”
The man once known as Thomas O’Connor changed his legal name in 2005 and now lives, aptly, in the city of North Pole, outside Fairbanks, where he serves on the city council.
He is not affiliated with any party but describes himself as an “independent, progressive, Democratic socialist.” He also said he would not hire any staff or accept campaign donations.
“Santa believes all members of Congress must find common ground, work together to represent their diverse constituencies, and move our nation forward in a productive manner that ensures happiness, peace, good health, and prosperity for everyone living in the United States, including Alaska,” his website says.
You can read more about all 50 candidates here in the Anchorage Daily News.