One sure way to tell that a TV show is hot -- politicians want to stage photo opportunities with the stars. According to the Associated Press, American Idol finalist Clay Aiken learned this lesson Thursday in Raleigh, N.C., as he posed on the steps of the state capitol building with N.C. governor Mike Easley.

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Gov. Easley gave Clay, 24, a North Carolina state pin (just what the well-dressed Idol finalist needs) and then criticized Clay's lack of choreography, stating "I don't want any more excuses about why you're not moving around enough when you sing."

Clay, a native of Raleigh who was in town to perform the national anthem at a Durham Bulls game, was good-natured about the jibe. However, the governor's attempt to imitate Simon Cowell may help explain why entertainers attempt to imitate political advisors....

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