Clay Aiken says he has best chance of the three Democrats running for Congress to defeat Republican U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers in November because of the attention he can bring to the race.

“We have to energize the electorate,” Aiken said during an interview with The Pilot editorial board Wednesday afternoon before attending a private campaign fundraiser that evenng. “We need to bring attention to her record. Renee Ellmers needs to be held accountable for her record.

“People want something different. They are tired of what they have gotten for the last five years or more.”

The former “American Idol” runner-up and recording artist said neither of his Democratic opponents — former state Commerce Secretary Keith Crisco and Toni Morris, of Fayetteville — have the ability to generate that attention.

“People are paying attention to this race,” he said. “Republicans are nervous. They have put a tracker on me That won’t be the case if I am not around in June.”

Ellmers faces primary challenge from conservative radio talk show host and tea party favorite Frank Roche, of Cary.

Aiken, a former special education teacher from Cary, said Ellmers is not listening to people in the 2nd District, which includes all Moore County

“She’s gone up there to serve herself,” he said. “Her record will show that. Her record in and of itself should defeat her.”

Aiken stressed that he is a serious candidate and that he will be competitive in raising the money it takes to win. He said this will probably be one of the most expensive congressional races in state history, pointing out that Ellmers may double the $1.3 million she raised two years ago.

“We are prepared for that,” he said. “This is a district where we have a chance. We recognize we have to raise money.”

Aiken said he has already raised $200,000. He said it will take a high-profile campaign to defeat Ellmers in what is a strong Republican district, something Steve Wilkins, of Whispering Pines, was unable to do in 2012.

“Steve was a great candidate and would have been a great congressman,” Aiken said. “He was knowledgeableand had a great resume. He didn’t have the profile that would make people pay attention to the race. We are able to do that.”

Aiken added that he is not running for Congress because he needs a job. He said he see a vacuumthat needs to be filled by someone with “new and fresh ideas.”

“I am doing this because I want to represent people,” he said. “I am a Democrat because I believe government has the responsibility and the ability to empower people.”

This excellent write-up is by David Sinclair/Managing Editor  This is a place that you might want to save on your computer.  They seem to post a lot of excellent information about the politics of the area.  You can see the article at The Pilot

As always, if there is more news about Clay, I will post it as soon as I can!

What a great way to end the day!

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