Thanks to all who provide info! Thought I'd update what I did.
After removing the bracket, the bend is obvious:
Also, discovered that the 'arm' wasn't perpendicular to the side bracket, resulting in a sideways push.
So first step was to cut the arm, bend it out perpendicular, then fill the gap with my MIG welder.
After smoothing the welds, and a few minutes in the blast cabinet, the bracket is looking much better.
The actuating arm was bent also, so I made a new one.
Bracket all painted and ready to reinstall.
Thanks to Luke's photo, I was able to make a new rod that ties the bell housing to the bracket to prevent the bending from occurring in the future.
And everything back in place, the new 'tie' rod in place, and everything lines up nicely!
Thanks again, will see what I come up with next!
Cheers.