Joe Walsh
Former U.S. Congressman (R-IL 08) & Board Member, State Democracy Defenders Fund
William Joseph "Joe" Walsh is an American conservative talk radio host, former U.S. Representative for Illinois’ 8th congressional district, and a Board Member for the State Democracy Defenders Fund.
Born and raised in the Chicago metropolitan area, Walsh began his career as a social worker, helping students in low-income areas gain access to education and job training. Over time, he became more politically active, running unsuccessfully for Congress in 1996 and the Illinois House of Representatives in 1998 before finally securing a seat in the U.S. House in 2010. He defeated three-term incumbent Melissa Bean in a major upset, despite receiving little support from the Republican Party. Walsh’s campaign was fueled by grassroots enthusiasm from the Tea Party movement, reflecting his shift from a moderate Republican in the 1990s to a conservative activist.
A staunch fiscal conservative, he opposed any tax increases, voted against raising the federal debt ceiling, and proposed a balanced budget amendment to the U.S. Constitution. He also denied the scientific consensus on climate change and supported stricter border policies. His no-compromise approach to governing drew both praise and criticism.
Following redistricting after the 2010 Census, Walsh’s district was reshaped by the Democratic-controlled Illinois General Assembly, making re-election more challenging. Though he initially considered running in the 14th district against a fellow Republican, he ultimately sought re-election in his remapped 8th district, facing Democratic challenger Tammy Duckworth, a retired U.S. Army Lt. Colonel. He lost the November 6, 2012 general election to Duckworth.
After leaving Congress, Walsh transitioned to conservative talk radio, becoming the host of a show on WIND-AM 560. Initially a strong supporter of Donald Trump, Walsh later became a vocal critic of the president. On August 25, 2019, he announced a Republican primary challenge against Trump, citing the president’s conduct in office. However, his campaign struggled to gain traction, and after a poor showing in the Iowa caucuses, Walsh ended his bid on February 7, 2020. Following his exit, he left the Republican Party and later endorsed and voted for Democratic nominee Joe Biden, who went on to win the election.
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