'I’m flattered that I’m being discussed as a potential candidate,' Fluke says. Fluke may seek Waxman House seat

Sandra Fluke, who became an instant celebrity when she was denied the opportunity to testify at a hearing on Obamacare’s contraception requirements, is “strongly considering” a bid for Rep. Henry Waxman’s congressional seat, according to KPCC, a Southern California radio station.

“I’m flattered that I’m being discussed as a potential candidate,” she told the station. “A number of folks I respect very deeply have reached out today and encouraged me to run. I am strongly considering running.”


Fluke’s LinkedIn account describes her as a “social justice advocate” in the “greater Los Angeles area” and she’s active on Twitter promoting causes related to women’s health, safety and equality. She also tweeted Thursday to congratulate Waxman on his retirement.

( Also on POLITICO: Henry Waxman to retire)

“A sincere thank you to liberal champion @WaxmanClimate for 40 years of service to our community in LA,” she wrote. She didn’t tweet about any interest she had in becoming a candidate and did not respond to a request for comment made via her spokesman.

Fluke rose to stardom in 2012 when, as a Georgetown Law student, she was denied the chance to testify at a Republican-led House oversight hearing on Obamacare’s contraception coverage requirements and religious freedom. Women did appear on a subsequent panel. The controversy went viral when conservative radio host Rush Limbaugh called her a “prostitute” and a “slut” because of her need for birth control.

Fluke quickly became a celebrity on the left and an outspoken advocate on women’s health issues. She even received a speaking spot at the Democratic National Convention in 2012, as Democrats contended that Republicans had waged a “war on women.”

The news was met quickly with support from prominent Democrats. Strategist Hilary Rosen expressed support on Twitter and offered the hashtag “#RunSandraRun.”

Others considered potential contenders for the seat Waxman held for 40 years are lawmakers from Waxman’s Los Angeles area district, according to The Sacramento Bee. They include: state Sens. Ted Lieu and Fran Pavley, as well as Assemblyman Richard Bloom.