Santa Claus (politician)

Santa Claus (born Thomas Patrick O'Connor, 1947) is an American politician, monk, and child welfare activist. Claus gained recognition as a member of the North Pole, Alaska City Council, and was a candidate for the 2022 Alaska's at-large congressional district special election. He changed his name to match the legendary character in 2005, to help bring awareness to his advocacy for children's health and welfare, a time during which he engaged in a nation-wide tour to champion that cause. Claus has expanded his advocacy as a congressional candidate into the broader sphere of democratic socialism, including support for Medicare for All, coronavirus relief, a wealth tax, and student loan cancellation.