Santa Claus is running for Congress in Alaska — and according to recent polling, he actually has a decent chance of winning.

I just want to emphasize: This poll gives a guy legally named Santa Claus a realistic shot to be the next US congressman from Alaska https://t.co/HwCwlKOYlC

— Populism Updates (@PopulismUpdates) May 10, 2022

The white-bearded democratic socialist on the city council of North Pole, Alaska, does not seem to be the St. Nick of popular legend and folklore — but he does seem to be competitive in a race against other candidates including Sarah Palin, former Alaska governor and vice-presidential candidate. As social media took notice of Santa's bid, many online rejoiced at his candidacy.

Please, Alaska. Vote for Santa Claus. https://t.co/709OKmWfJt

— Attitude with a side of freckles (@HazeyDaisey17) May 15, 2022

I love that I can vote for Santa Claus in this special election and he's a legit option, not a meme answer

"Santa Claus for Alaska in the house of representatives" just feels very 2022 energy

— ❤️️🧡💛Rhave / Pup Neon💚💙💜 (@RhaveFerret) May 12, 2022

The former monk and New York City special assistant deputy police commissioner changed his name to Santa Claus after growing his beard out and discovering that he resembled the famous character.

This part of twitter: In a deep argument over if it's ok to tell people Santa Claus is real.

Santa Claus: Has a good chance of becoming the next Congressman from Alaska. https://t.co/V6Qzgv0JBf

— Yosarian2 (@YosarianTwo) May 10, 2022

Claus is running on a platform modeled after Bernie Sanders, and has staked out positions in support of Medicare for All, environmental protections and other progressive priorities.

I admire Santa Claus for running for office, he's authentic and he understand the issues working Alaskans face. Wish I lived in Alaska for many reasons, also I could vote for him.

PROTECT THE ARCTIC REFUGE! https://t.co/ozUA3MCprZ

— Marlene (@MPersisting) May 14, 2022

"I believe in strong campaign finance laws, Ranked Choice Voting, the "For the People" Act, and repealing Citizens United. If elected to the US House of Reps, I'll endeavor to draft, sponsor, or co-sponsor legislation similar to HJR 48 for campaign finance reform." ~Santa Claus pic.twitter.com/vaooKIpC4W

— Santa Claus (@TheRadicalSanta) May 11, 2022

Santa Claus is not taking donations, instead opting to fund his campaign with $400 of his own money. His campaign Twitter account is now approaching 8,000 followers and climbing.

The special election to fill the seat vacated following the death of Don Young® will be held on August 13th, but the primary will be held on June 11th. If Santa Claus wins the special election, he will serve until January 2023, the remainder of Young’s term, which means he may spend next Christmas in Washington, D.C.