WASHINGTON D.C.—This afternoon presidential hopeful Donald Trump announced he is actually Andy Kaufman before a sold-out crowd of paid supporters.

Kaufman, the comedian and prolific prankster best known for his portrayal of Latka Gravas in the 70’s sitcom “Taxi,” was believed to have died in 1984.

The announcement created political shock waves and ended years of speculation that Kaufman had faked his death.

According to Kaufman, the reception to the character has convinced him to continue with his presidential bid.

“I attempted to create a character more absurd in the scope of its offensiveness than any of my other creations, I believe I have succeeded in that endeavor,” said Kaufman. “To my great shock and disgust America really has a thing for rich, racist sociopaths.”

Kaufman insisted that the revelation would not impact the course of the Trump campaign.

“This is a democracy, and every person, no matter how racist, short-sighted or religiously deferential to the wisdom of tinpot billionaires, deserves to have a candidate they falsely believe will represent them,” said Kaufman.

Kaufman vowed that he would continue living his life as the Trump character if he were to be elected to the office of president.

Kaufman said he was amazed that so many people managed to take the Trump character so seriously for so long, and that no one picked up on the many similarities between Trump and Tony Clifton, one of Kaufman’s other comedic, dick-headed characters.

Following the announcement, the Trump character’s approval rating has increased 20 points.

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