Jacob Chansley, also known as the “QAnon shaman,” has been released from prison after serving over two years for his involvement in the January 6 attack on Congress. Now, Chansley has set his sights on a new goal: running for Congress.
Chansley, who became a notorious figure after his participation in the siege on the US Capitol, is considering a run for a US Congress seat in Arizona’s 8th congressional District. He has filed the necessary paperwork with Arizona’s Secretary of State’s Office, indicating his intention to run as a Libertarian candidate.
The current representative for the district is Republican Rep. Debbie Lesko, who recently announced her retirement in January and will not seek re-election in 2024. This opens up the race for her seat, with notable candidates such as Blake Masters and Abe Hamadeh already in the running.
Chansley, one of the first rioters to breach the Capitol, issued an apology after pleading guilty to his crimes. He served a 27-month prison sentence before being released. Despite being a convicted felon and unable to vote, Chansley is eligible to run for office.
It remains to be seen how Chansley’s potential candidacy will be received by the public, given his association with the violent events of January 6. However, his bid for Congress adds another intriguing element to an already heated race in Arizona’s 8th congressional District.
