Chelsea Manning files to run for US Senate in Maryland

NORTH BETHESDA, Md. – Chelsea Manning will run for the U.S. Senate in Maryland.

The transgender former Army officer who was convicted of leaking classified documents filed her statement of candidacy with the Federal Election Commission on Thursday.

READ MORE: Chelsea Manning says Canada has denied her entry, deemed inadmissible for criminal record

The Washington Post reported Saturday that Manning will challenge Democrat Ben Cardin. He has served two terms and is an overwhelming favourite to win.

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WATCH: Chelsea Manning released from military prison months after being granted her clemency

1:20 Chelsea Manning released from military prison months after being granted her clemency

The 30-year-old Manning listed a North Bethesda address in her FEC filing. She is running as a Democrat.

READ MORE: Chelsea Manning should be allowed into Canada despite federal crimes: advocates

Manning was convicted of leaking classified information and spent more than six years behind bars.

Known as Bradley Manning at the time of her 2010 arrest, Manning came out as transgender after being sentenced. President Barack Obama granted clemency to Manning before leaving office.