The Runner-Up

American Idol runner-up Clay Aiken attempts to become the South's first openly gay Congressman in a run for a North Carolina Congressional seat. In a tough primary, negative campaign ads and an underfunded team test his optimism. Then, on a too-close-to-call election night, a shocking twist propels him to an even tougher battle against the Republican incumbent in the general election.

Having eked out a razor-thin primary victory, Congressional candidate Clay Aiken faces dramatic new challenges in the general election. He argues with his new campaign team when they want him to go negative, and, desperately short of cash, he stages fundraisers with "American Idol" winners Ruben Stoddard and Fantasia. Already behind in the early polls, Clay's only hope is a live, televised debate. But will he be able to handle the war of words and pull off the upset?

A strong debate performance brings Clay within striking distance of his Republican opponent. However, short on cash and with no fundraising help from the Democratic Party, the desperate candidate must venture into dangerous Tea Party territory. As Election Day looms, Clay creates a firestorm with his position on same sex marriage.

After a heated discussion with his staff, Clay finally agrees to go negative. But the move backfires.