Editor’s note: The original version of this story incorrectly noted the party to which Mr. Amash turned after leaving the Republicans. We regret the error.
HOLLAND (WHTC-AM/FM) — U.S. Rep. Justin Amash, a Republican-turned-Independent, announced he’s considering a run as a Libertarian for President of the United States.
The Third District-based Congressman launched a campaign website, AmashforAmerica.com, where his supporters can donate to his cause.
Amash left the Republican party last Fourth of July, after facing a mix of backlash and support for calling President Trump’s conduct “impeachable.” He went on to became the only non-Democrat in the House to vote in favor of impeaching the President.
His announcement this week brought criticism from two people vying to replace him in the U.S. House: Peter Meijer and Lynn Afendoulis.
“Our campaign has always been about serving West Michigan, and nothing will change our mission,” Meijer said, in a statement emailed to media. One of the family running the Meijer chain of grocery stories, this candidate is an Iraq War veteran who has served in disaster response missions at home and abroad.
Lynn Afendoulis, another Republican running against Amash for the Congressional seat, emailed a message to media that read, in part:
“This is just one more illustration of Justin’s focus — on his OWN wants and priorities, not his district’s,” Afendoulis said. “West Michigan has been yearning for true, engaged leadership.
She went on to write, “And that’s what I’ll provide. Together, we will stand firmly with President Trump and we will work hard to re-elect him in November. Justin Amash has had a constituency of one: himself. We need to send someone to Washington who will represent the people and values of West Michigan; who has known this community all her life and who will work with President Trump to defend our borders, stand up to China, and protect the American Dream. I have a proven track record that the voters can trust, and I look forward to a robust conversation with them in the coming months.”
