Evan McMullin, an independent conservative candidate, is officially registered as a write-in on Wisconsin ballots, the state Elections Commission announced Thursday.
The 40-year-old Utah native is slowly gaining recognition across the nation since joining the race in August, with a recent YouGov poll showing him tied with Republican nominee Donald Trump in the Beehive State.
His late entrance to the race gave rise to his tagline “it is never too late to do the right thing.” Currently, he is a valid write in option in over 30 states and is currently on the ballot in 11.
McMullin spent 10 years in the CIA. He also has worked as an investment banker and a House Republican staffer.
“He is not new to the game,” Ed Willing, chair of McMullin’s campaign in Wisconsin, said in an interview. “He provides a fresh perspective that is outlined in his principles.”
McMullin has received support from conservatives in Wisconsin, including influential talk show host Charlie Sykes, who confirmed his vote for McMullin in an op-ed on Right Wisconsin.
Although his beliefs align with those of a conservative Republican, he claims he is more inclusive. McMullin believes that the American people need a new conservative movement “that welcomes people of different races and religions into the fold.”
If McMullin can pull off blocking the 270 electoral votes from Clinton and Trump, he could become the first third-party candidate to win electoral votes in nearly 50 years.
McMullin recognizes he is a “longshot candidate” and never intended to run for president. However, he found it necessary to step up and provide the American people with an alternative to Trump or Clinton, especially after many well-known Republicans declined to do so.
“He provides an opportunity for folks that are frustrated with both [candidates]” Willing said. “He is encouraging people that they have a choice.”
Wisconsin supporters of McMullin will be distributing information about the candidate outside Camp Randall Saturday, Oct. 29 at 4:30 p.m.
