Tennessee man isn't letting cerebral palsy stand in way of run for Congress

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) - A Tennessee man with cerebral palsy isn't letting communication difficulties stop him from running for office.

Cookeville High School and Tennessee Tech alumnus Christopher Monday is running for U.S. Congress in the 6th District of Tennessee. Monday is hoping to take the seat previously held by Diane Black who is now running for governor.

On his website and social media pages, the Constitutionalist expresses his views on everything from immigration, NFL protests and gun control.

On Sunday, former Rep. Jim Cobb spoke for Monday at a Fentress County event. Before expressing Monday's stance on issues, Cobb shared what he says makes Monday's story so unique and special.

"I think so much of this man for what he has shown me the courage to do and not be afraid ... of looks he might get," Cobb said. "This guy means so much to me because there's nothing that can hold you back if you want to do something."

Monday was showered by standing applause by those in attendance at the Ronald Reagan Dinner. Speaking with FOX 17 News, Monday says he is running as a Republican and echoed Cobb's statements about overcoming obstacles.

The 34-year-old says due to complications at birth, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which is caused by a lack of oxygen to the brain and results in inability to control motor function and in a majority of cases, affects mental development.

"However, in my case, I was only affected physically. Which is how I was able to graduate from high school with honors and attended Tennessee Technological University for two years," Monday said. Although he was unable to finish at the school due to unforeseen circumstances, Monday just chalks it up as another motivator.

"It drives me to do my best and to succeed in everything, which is important to me, and the fact that he has always felt the burning desire to serve my country is why I decided to run for U.S. representative in the 6th District of Tennessee," Monday said. "In short, I am running because I hope to return the country back to the Constitution."

He's hoping to first get the votes needed during the Aug. 2 primary before moving on to the Nov. 6 general election.