Jacob Chansley, known as the "QAnon Shaman" for his role in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot, has made a surprising move by filing paperwork to run for Congress in Arizona's 8th Congressional District, NBC News reports.
This development comes as the district's current representative, Rep. Debbie Lesko, R-Ariz., announced her decision not to seek re-election.
Chansley, an Arizona resident, gained notoriety during the Capitol siege for his distinctive appearance. He was seen shirtless, wearing face paint and a furry headdress with horns, and carrying a U.S. flag attached to a spear, along with a bullhorn. His striking attire and behavior during the riot made him one of the most recognizable figures in the mob.
Chansley had pleaded guilty to a single count of felony obstruction of an official proceeding. In 2021, a federal judge handed down a 41-month prison sentence to Chansley. Prosecutors, in their sentencing memo, labeled him as the "public face of the Capitol riot."
They noted that Chansley was part of the initial wave of rioters who breached the Capitol building and used his bullhorn to incite the crowd and demand the appearance of lawmakers.
The sentencing memo further detailed Chansley's actions, including shouting profanities in the Senate gallery, defiantly occupying the chamber's dais, and leaving a threatening note stating, "It’s Only A Matter of Time. Justice Is Coming!" Prosecutors emphasized Chansley's involvement in spreading "false information and hateful rhetoric" through social media, which contributed to the Capitol attack.
Chansley served approximately 27 months of his sentence before being transferred to a halfway house in Phoenix in March, as reported by the Associated Press. During his legal proceedings, Chansley's then-lawyer, Albert Watkins, stated that Chansley wished to distance himself from his "QAnon Shaman" persona. At his sentencing hearing, Chansley expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging their indefensible nature.
“I was wrong for entering the Capitol,” Chansley admitted to the judge. “I have no excuse. No excuse whatsoever.”
Now, as he embarks on a political campaign, Chansley's bid for Congress marks a significant shift from his previous activities and public image. His candidacy raises questions about the political landscape in Arizona's 8th Congressional District and reflects the ongoing influence of the January 6 events on American politics.
With his entry into the congressional race, the district, already a battleground, may see an intensification of political discourse and scrutiny in the upcoming election cycle.