Joe Walsh Child Support Controversy: Congressman Wins 'Family' Award Despite 100K Debt
The Family Research Council (FRC) has awarded Congressman Joe Walsh its coveted "True Blue" award for "defending family, faith, and freedom," despite Walsh owing over $100,000 in back child support to his wife and three kids.
According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Laura Walsh, Walsh's ex-wife, says the Tea Party congressman has yet to pay the hefty child support bill. Walsh claims he has a "verbal agreement" with his ex-wife that he did not have to pay any child support when he was not earning much money.
The FRC, however, awarded Walsh for his commitment to conservative causes such as fighting against Obama's health care plan, same-sex marriage, and defunding Planned Parenthood.
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"We thank Congressman Walsh who has voted consistently to defend faith, family and freedom," said FRCA President Tony Perkins. "Congressman Walsh and other 'True Blue Members' have voted to repeal Obamacare, de-fund Planned Parenthood, end government funding for abortion within the health care law, uphold the Defense of Marriage Act, and continue support for school choice. I applaud their commitment to uphold the institutions of marriage and family."
"I am proud and honored to be recognized by the Family Research Council as the only member from Illinois with a 100 percent pro-family voting record," Walsh said. "Defending American values have always been one of my top priorities, and this reward reaffirms my dedication to that fight."
Although Walsh was dedicated to "defending American values," lawyers for Walsh's ex-wife claim he was dishonest about not having money to pay child support, according to an earlier Sun-Times article.
"Joe personally loaned his campaign $35,000, which, given that he failed to make any child support payments to Laura because he 'had no money' is surprising," Laura Walsh's attorneys wrote in a motion filed in December seeking $117,437 in back child support and interest. "Joe has paid himself back at least $14,200 for the loans he gave himself."
Court records indicate that Laura Walsh has been fighting in court to get child support for nearly 10 years. The Illinois congressman had also took vacations to Mexico and Italy, despite claiming he was unable to pay child support due to not having enough money.
Referring to the "True Blue" award-winners, FRC Action President Tony Perkins said, "Values voters should be encouraged by these Members who have shown a commitment to protecting and strengthening the family."
