A man widely recognized for carrying a lectern out of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s office during the January 6, 2021, U.S. Capitol attack has officially entered the race for public office in Florida.
Adam Johnson, 41, became known online as the “Lectern Guy” after a widely circulated photograph showed him “grinning and waving while carrying the stand” taken from Pelosi’s office during the riot, according to CBS News. The image quickly became one of the most viral and enduring visuals tied to the attack on the Capitol.
On Tuesday, the fifth anniversary of the January 6 riot, Johnson filed paperwork to run as a Republican candidate for an at-large seat on the Manatee County Commission, located just south of Tampa. His filing was confirmed through county election records and reported by multiple national and local outlets.
Johnson was later arrested and charged in connection with entering or remaining in a restricted building following the events at the Capitol. AP News reported that his case became one of the more recognizable prosecutions tied to the riot because of the viral photograph that captured him carrying the lectern through the Capitol halls.
Local reporting notes that Johnson’s candidacy has already stirred debate within Manatee County. Axios reported that he is seeking a county commission seat and that his name recognition, driven largely by the viral image, could make him a notable figure in the local race.
The Guardian also confirmed Johnson’s candidacy and noted that his decision to file on January 6 itself has drawn criticism and concern from some residents who view the date as symbolically charged, given the nature of his notoriety.
As of now, Johnson has not issued a detailed public statement to national outlets outlining his campaign platform. Election filings show that he intends to compete in the Republican primary for the at-large Manatee County Commission seat later this year. Whether his national infamy will translate into local voter support remains to be seen as the race develops.
