The '19 Kids and Counting' star loses in the race for the Republican nomination for a special election for a state senate seat in Arkansas, days after his eldest son was found guilty on child pornography charges.
- Dec 16, 2021
AceShowbiz - Jim Bob Duggar's bid to become an Arkansas senate has come to an end. The reality TV star lost in a Special Primary Election for Arkansas State Senate District 7 on Wednesday, December 15. He lost to former city councilor Colby Fulfer and Steve Unger, who are headed to a runoff election scheduled for January 11, 2022.
Jim Bob, who previously served in the Arkansas House of Representatives, said in a statement after the poll results showed that he drew roughly 15% of the vote, "I want to thank those of you who voted for me, volunteered, contributed, and supported me in my race for Arkansas State Senate District 7. I am so honored to have been surrounded by some really great people in this campaign."
"It has been a difficult season for our family," he added, seemingly referring to his son Josh Duggar's child porn case, "so I am particularly grateful to those of you who have offered your prayers and encouragement." He went on declaring, "I love our country, our state, and our Northwest Arkansas community."
The 56-year-old then showed his support for the remaining candidates, "I will always do all I can to help advance conservative candidates and causes. I want to congratulate Colby Fulfer and Steve Unger, the top two Republican candidates, who will have a run-off election on January 11. Whoever wins the Republican primary will have my support and prayer for victory as he faces a Democrat opponent on February 8. Above all, I am thankful to God for His love and kindness toward us, and pray He will cause His face to shine on our state and nation."
The election came just days after Jim Bob's firstborn Josh was convicted in federal court of receiving and possessing child pornography. Following the guilty verdict, the Duggar patriarch and his wife Michelle Duggar said in a statement, "This entire ordeal has been very grievous. Today, God's grace, through the love and prayers of so many, have sustained us. Our hearts and prayers are with anyone who has ever been harmed through CSAM [Child Sexual Abuse Material]."
"In the days ahead, we will do all we can to surround our daughter-in-law Anna and their children with love and support," the couple continued. "As parents, we will never stop praying for Joshua, and loving him, as we do all of our children. In each of life's circumstances, we place our trust in God. He is our source of strength and refuge. Thank you for your prayers."
