COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - A once-homeless Ohio man whose smooth radio voice made him an Internet sensation a decade ago says he’s running for governor as a Democrat.
Ted Williams was propelled into the spotlight in 2011 after he appeared in a video by The Columbus Dispatch panhandling on a highway ramp with a sign advertising his golden voice. The video’s millions of views led to national television appearances and earned Williams numerous voice-over jobs.
Williams announced his latest long-shot political plans this week on Scott Spears’ “Now” radio program on WWGH-FM in Marion. He picked the same station to announce a bid for president in 2015.
He says his presidential bid didn’t go anywhere because he “didn’t follow up on it,” but that he will be have “a full-fledged group of people” around him this time to guide his campaign. The U.S. Army veteran said improving veterans’ services and prioritizing education over imprisonment will be among his priorities.
Williams aspires to the seat held by Republican Gov. Mike DeWine, whose performance he graded at a B. He would face Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley, who announced a gubernatorial bid Monday, in the Democratic primary.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.