Jersey gym owner, early pandemic mandate maverick, announces House seat bid

The New Jersey gym owner who became a public figure in the early stages of the pandemic for defying state-ordered business closures is running for Congress.

Ian Smith, the owner of Atlis Gym, in Bellmawr, said Sunday he’ll run against Democrat Rep. Andy Kim, who represents New Jersey’s third congressional district.

Smith, who is running as a Republican, tweeted Sunday he will formally announce his campaign Thursday, according to The Hill newspaper. 

"I am truly excited to have the possibility to serve the people of NJ with a platform focused on liberty, small government, and America First policies," Smith tweeted.