Duggar Family: Santorum 'Man of God' to Lead Nation
The Duggar family has already appeared at an event for presidential candidate Rick Santorum, but in a new interview, Jim Bob and wife Michelle have opened up about why they are supporting him.
"We want a man that honors God to lead our nation. We have been praying to the Lord that if you want the heart of the voters to turn to Rick Santorum, then please do so," Michelle told RadarOnline. She and Jim Bob actually have quite a bit in common with Santorum, which is one reason they were so eager to offer their support.
"He's a family values candidate with a proven track record," said Jim Bob. "He honors life and stands up for what is right." While Jim Bob considers Santorum worthy of the nomination, he has stated that Republicans are "not going to find a perfect candidate, unless it's Jesus Christ."
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The Santorum and Duggar families are both larger than average and have experienced the very personal loss of an unborn child. Michelle Duggar lost daughter Jubilee Shalom, and the family had a private memorial for their 20th child.
Karen Santorum gave birth to Gabriel, who was stillborn at 20 weeks. The family also brought him home in order to introduce him to his siblings before holding a private memorial.
Both families have spoken about children being a blessing from God and welcoming any and all children that God blesses them with, regardless of the circumstances. "This is the child that no one said would live for even a day, and we feel so blessed, we celebrate every moment of her life, every single day," said Karen Santorum of daughter Bella.
Bella, 3, was born with a genetic disorder known as Trisonomy 18, which is often fatal and can cause heart abnormalities, kidney malformation and other internal organs disorders. "This is our daughter, period. She is a blessing no matter what she is. She is exactly what God wanted to give us," said Rick Santorum at an event with James Dobson.
Josie Duggar was born prematurely and spent several months in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at an Arkansas hospital. The Duggar family recently appeared on the "Today Show" to celebrate Josie's progress. "She is a miracle baby, and all of us are so lucky to have her," said Michelle. "Just the fact that she's here is just something to be grateful about."
Santorum has moved up significantly in the polls, running virtually neck-and-neck with Mitt Romney. The Duggar family's TLC show has entered its sixth season and airs Tuesday nights.
