I usually associate Real World cast members with drunken barfights, threeways, and tearful meltdowns--but politics? That's a first. Kevin Powell, former Real World reality star, is running for Congress in Brooklyn's 10th District. Old-timers like myself remember Kevin from the show's very first season, back when the cast members weren't equal parts hot and crazy.

Powell's post-reality career has set him apart from the typical fame-seeking MTV celebs. According to his campaign website, he's written seven books and is a successful lecturer and activist. That certainly beats stints on The Surreal Life and the Real World/Road Rules Challenge.

Kevin Powell has a lot of famous people in his corner, from Chris Rock, who appeared at a Powell fundraiser, to Gloria Steinem, who sings Powell's praises on the campaign site. On the down side, ABC News interviewed one political analyst who believes that Kevin's lack of public service experience could work against him. The analyst added that Powell's opponent is a long-time incumbent with a well-funded and highly-organized campaign. Plus, there's that whole candlestick incident in Kevin's past (ha!).

Will this former reality TV personality be the next celebrity-turned-politician?

[via Pop Candy]