Rep. Justin Amash launches exploratory committee in pursuit of Libertarian presidential nomination

Rep. Justin Amash on Tuesday announced the launch of an exploratory committee as he works to secure the Libertarian Party's presidential nomination.

Amash, a Michigan congressman who switched from Republican to Independent last year, voted for both articles of impeachment against President Trump. 

"We’re ready for a presidency that will restore respect for our Constitution and bring people together," Amash tweeted. "I’m excited and honored to be taking these first steps toward serving Americans of every background as president."

While a Libertarian candidate is unlikely to defeat either of the two major party candidates during a general election cycle, a strong performance by a third-party candidate could potentially cut into one or both of the top contenders' vote count and impact the outcome of the election.

Amash's home state of Michigan went to Trump by a razor-thin margin in 2016 and was a crucial pickup of a solidly blue state by the Republican in building his decisive electoral college victory over Democratic opponent Hillary Clinton despite losing the national popular vote.