NEW YORK (AP) — Days before President Barack Obama's inauguration for a second term in office, Fox News Channel has signed Dennis Kucinich, one of his former opponents, to be a regular contributor.

Kucinich, a presidential candidate in 2004 and 2008 who ended 16 years in Congress two weeks ago, will make his debut as a Fox contributor on Thursday's edition of "The O'Reilly Factor," the network said Wednesday.

"I've always been impressed with Rep. Kucinich's fearlessness and thoughtfulness about important issues," Fox News Chairman Roger Ailes said. "His willingness to take a stand from his point of view makes him a valuable voice in our country's debate."

Fox is the nation's top-ranked cable news network, particularly popular with Republicans. Its big-name Republican contributors include Karl Rove, Sarah Palin and John Bolton. Democrats in the Fox stable include Evan Bayh, Joe Trippi and Bob Beckel.

Kucinich was elected to the Cleveland city council at age 23 and, at 31, became one of the nation's youngest mayors. He's also been an Ohio state senator and run his own communications and marketing firm.

"Fox News has always provided me with an opportunity to share my perspective with its enormous viewership," he said.