“One of my first experiences in politics and government was asking Congressman Price to speak to my eighth grade class – an invitation he graciously accepted. He is a legendary legislator who has delivered for the Triangle for over 30 years, and he leaves big shoes to fill. I’d be honored to take his place representing the Triangle. As a loud and proud Democrat, I intend to use my voice to deliver real results for North Carolina families, just like David Price has done for decades. I'll always stand up for my principles and fight for inclusion, income equality, free access to quality health care, and combating climate change. I also believe we need more civility in our politics, and North Carolina deserves representatives in Washington who use their positions to make people’s lives better, not to advance polarizing positions that embarrass our state and stand in the way of real progress. As my mom taught me: ‘you can disagree without being disagreeable.’”

“In Congress, I’ll use my voice to advocate for common-sense policies that encourage continued job growth and healthy communities. Many of these political battles divide us as people, threaten our democracy, and weaken America. North Carolinians are worried about affordable health care and rapid inflation. They are worried about their retirement savings and are frustrated by crowded interstates and infrastructure that hasn't kept up with our rapid growth. These are the issues that matter, and these are the issues I will focus on in Congress.”
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About Clay
Clay Aiken, 43, is a 10th generation North Carolinian who was born, raised and currently resides in Wake County, NC – part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle. Aiken studied and taught special education prior to his appearance on American Idol in 2003. He went on to use his platform to become an advocate for full inclusion of children with special needs, including founding The National Inclusion Project. Aiken has also advocated for humanitarian efforts in war-torn and tragedy-stricken countries on behalf of UNICEF as a National Goodwill Ambassador. Aiken is a lifelong Democrat running in the newly drawn NC-06. The region’s current congressman, Rep. David Price, announced his retirement in October after serving in Congress since 1987.