He's the fringiest of fringe candidates, so it probably comes as no surprise that Democrat Mike Gravel has a Second Life campaign site. What's he got to lose?

The Second Choices blog reports that Gravel, the former U.S. Senator from Alaska, will later this week become the first presidential candidate to officially endorse his Second Life presence.

Gravel shook up last month's Democratic debate with unfiltered comments about Iraq, Iran, diplomacy and his fellow Democrats. As Second Choices blogger Laila writes:

Like Ron Paul, Gravel needs grassroots– or in this case, netroots– support in order to raise his profile. By officially endorsing the efforts of his in-world supporters, Gravel’s candidacy will get a much needed boost in visibility.

Gravel's Second Life Group Director Astrophysicist McCallister adds:

I am thrilled to realize that Sen. Gravel is open to exploration of Second Life as a campaign medium, and hope that we’re able to support the candidate while he supports the future of the Political Forum.

While Gravel has not committed to appearing in avatar form, his campaign has secured the use of the name "Mike Gravel" from Linden Lab. Not familiar with Gravel? Check out the debate video: