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The rosy-cheeked
68-year-old candidate, who happens to be named Santa Claus, won
a three-year term in the community of about 2,200 residents
southeast of Fairbanks, according to election results released
on Tuesday.
"My thanks to everyone who voted for me ... and all who
supported my campaign," Claus wrote on Facebook. "I'll do my
best for all!"
Claus, who legally changed his name from Thomas Patrick O'Connor
about a decade ago while living in Nevada, said he has been an
advocate for legislation and services that benefit at-risk
children.
He could be seen in recent days wearing his trademark red velvet
outfit and holding a campaign sign in North Pole, the namesake
of the home of the legendary Christmas gift-giver.
Claus was one of two write-in candidates for two vacant seats in
the Oct. 6 election. He will take office on Oct. 26, North Pole
City Clerk Kathy Weber said.
In an interview with Reuters, Claus said that calling state
lawmakers and saying: "This is Santa Claus from North Pole,"
either got their attention or a quick, though temporary,
rejection. "It's been a valuable tool for developing legislation
to protect children."
(Reporting by Steve Quinn in Juneau; Editing by Eric M. Johnson
and Peter Cooney)
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