Former homeless man with 'golden voice' enters presidential race

Jennifer Calfas | USA TODAY

The "golden voice" is adding his name to the long list of presidential hopefuls.

Ted Williams, a formerly homeless man who rose to stardom for his deep voice, will run as an independent candidate for the 2016 election.

Williams, 57, reached fame after The Columbia Dispatch published a video of him panhandling in Ohio with his smooth voice in 2011. Since then, Williams has earned several voice-over jobs, including a popular commercial for Kraft Macaroni & Cheese.

Williams also published a book titled, "A Golden Voice: How Faith, Hard Work and Humility Brought Me from the Streets of Salvation."

Williams first made the announcement on Scott Spears' "Now" radio program on WWGH-FM in Marion, Ohio. In an interview with USA TODAY, Williams confirmed his bid, and elaborated on his goals for his candidacy.

And many of his initiatives hit close to home. As a former homeless man and U.S. military veteran, Williams said he hopes to focus on housing discrimination, veterans' issues, the job market and improving schools.

"I was created to create change," Williams said. "I want to do it big. Looking at all the other people running, I said why not change things on the highest level."

Williams' campaign and fundraising efforts are still in the early stages. Williams and Scott Anthony, the presidential hopeful's manager, are in the process of creating a campaign team.

His goal extends beyond hopes for his own legacy; he hopes to ensure the well-being of others. Williams, who was homeless and addicted to crack for a period of his life, said he understands what others may be going through.

Williams said he would provide "a voice for people who are struggling."

Brett Witter, a New York Times bestselling author who co-wrote Williams' book, told USA TODAY despite the unlikeliness of Williams becoming president, his life experience is one that differs strongly from other candidates.

"It feels like none of the mainstream candidates know anyone who's not millionaires," Witter said. "(Williams has) been in some low places, and he's known a lot of people who have struggled. That's definitely a different perspective from other presidential aspirants."

Despite lacking political experience, Williams said he is still just as qualified as another presidential hopeful – mogul Donald Trump.

"If he can do it, I can do it," Williams said.

Witter said, if faced in a one-on-one debate, Williams would beat Trump.

"Ted is a much better candidate than Donald Trump," Witter said. "They have the same qualifications to be president – which are none."

Williams said he will make his official announcement on television soon – though he could not give details on an exact date. He said he will also file with the Federal Elections Commission after his announcement.