The man who previously identified himself as the “QAnon Shaman,” Jacob Chansley just filed a candidate statement of interest according to the Associated Press.
The most recognizable face of the January 6th protest on the Capitol building has set his eyes on Arizona’s 8th Congressional District, according to the online paperwork, and he is exploring a run as a Libertarian.
The seat is currently held by U.S. Rep. Debbie Lesko, a 64-year-old Republican. Lesko, who has held the office since 2018, announced last month that she would not seek reelection.
The famously dressed up, face painted Chansley entered the Capitol building peacefully on January 6th with the help of several police officers. He was seen on video roaming the inner Senate Chamber and in prayer as he chatted with the friendly officers. He was clearly non-violent and cooperative with the FBI after the fact.
For this crime, Chansley was sentenced to 41 months in jail after he pleaded guilty to civil disorder and violent entry. Following 27 months in prison, he was transferred to a halfway house in March of 2023.
Chansley, who has since disavowed the QAnon movement, according to the Associated Press, grew up in the Phoenix area and filed the candidate statement of interest paperwork with the Arizona Secretary of State’s office under the name Jacob Angeli-Chansley.
“The U.S. Constitution doesn’t prohibit felons from holding federal office. But Arizona law prohibits felons from voting until they have completed their sentence and had their civil rights restored,” AP reported.
Chansley has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Well, heck, if Fetterman can be in the Senate, why not?