Clay Higgins Biography: DOB, Education, Career, Family, Salary, and More

Clay Higgins is an American politician and law enforcement officer from Louisiana. He has served as the U.S. Representative for Louisiana’s 3rd congressional district since 2017.

Known for his strong conservative views and controversial statements, Higgins has gained both support and criticism throughout his career. His background in law enforcement and his unique communication style have made him a notable figure in Louisiana politics.

About Clay Higgins

Clay Higgins, also known as “Captain Clay,” was born and raised in Louisiana.

He grew up on a horse ranch near Covington, which helped shape his southern roots. Higgins is known for his strong religious beliefs and conservative values.

These beliefs play a big role in his political views and decision-making.

As a public figure, Higgins has become known for his direct and sometimes controversial way of speaking. This has earned him both fans and critics throughout his career.

Family Background

He comes from a large family. He is the seventh of eight children.

Growing up on a horse ranch, Higgins learned the value of hard work from a young age. His family was involved in raising and training horses, which likely influenced his strong work ethic.

While specific information about his parents is not available, it’s clear that his upbringing in a large family in Louisiana has shaped his values and outlook on life. The experience of growing up with many siblings may have contributed to his ability to connect with people from various backgrounds.

Education

Clay Higgins’ education journey began at Covington High School, where he completed his high school studies. After graduating, he went on to attend Louisiana State University (LSU).

Higgins studied at LSU during two periods: from 1979 to 1983 and again from 1989 to 1990.

However, he did not complete his college degree.

Despite not graduating from college, Higgins has had a varied career in both the private sector and public service. His experiences in law enforcement and business have played a significant role in shaping his political views and approach to public service.

Career Milestones

Clay Higgins has had a diverse career path, focusing mainly on law enforcement and public service. He started his career in the Louisiana National Guard as a Military Police Officer, serving for six years and reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. This military experience laid the foundation for his future in law enforcement.

In 2004, Higgins joined the Opelousas City Police Department as a patrol officer. However, his time there ended in controversy in 2007 when he resigned amid accusations of using unnecessary force.

Higgins then moved to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office in 2011. Here, he gained national attention for his Crime Stoppers videos, where he used a unique, direct style to address criminals. These videos earned him the nickname “Cajun John Wayne.”

In 2016, Higgins made a significant career change by running for and winning a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. He has been serving Louisiana’s 3rd Congressional District since then, focusing on issues like border security, energy policy, and gun rights.

Notable Works

Clay Higgins is perhaps best known for his Crime Stoppers videos, which he created while working for the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office. These videos went viral due to Higgins’ unique style of directly addressing criminals. He often used colorful language and a no-nonsense approach, which earned him both praise and criticism.

As a congressman, Higgins has been involved in various pieces of legislation. One notable example is his co-sponsorship of the Build the Wall, Enforce the Law Act. This bill aimed to fully fund President Trump’s proposed border wall and increase penalties for deported criminals trying to re-enter the U.S.

Higgins has also made several speeches on topics like energy policy and national security. In these speeches, he often advocates for increased oil and gas production and stricter border control measures. His speaking style in Congress often reflects the direct approach he used in his Crime Stoppers videos, making him a distinctive voice in political debates.

Awards and Recognition

Clay Higgins has received some recognition for his work in law enforcement and politics. In 2016, he was awarded the title of Kentucky Colonel by Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin. This is an honorary title given to individuals in recognition of their noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service.

The title of Kentucky Colonel is the highest honor awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky. It’s often given to individuals who have made significant contributions to their community, state, or nation. For Higgins, this recognition came shortly before his successful run for Congress, possibly reflecting his growing public profile due to his work in law enforcement and his viral Crime Stoppers videos.

While specific information about other awards or recognitions is not readily available, Higgins’ career in law enforcement and his current role as a U.S. Representative suggest that he may have received other forms of recognition throughout his career. These could include commendations from law enforcement agencies or acknowledgments from political organizations.

Financial Status

As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Clay Higgins receives a standard salary of $174,000 per year. This is the base pay for all rank-and-file members of Congress. However, this is just one part of his overall financial picture.

Congressmen often have other sources of income and various assets. These can include investments, real estate, and sometimes income from businesses or other work outside of Congress. However, specific details about Higgins’ net worth and major assets are not readily available.

It’s worth mentioning that all members of Congress are required to file annual financial disclosure reports. These reports provide some insight into their financial status, including ranges of values for their assets and liabilities. However, these reports don’t give exact figures, making it difficult to determine a precise net worth.

Higgins’ financial status may have changed over time, especially considering his transition from a career in law enforcement to a role in national politics. His current position as a U.S. Representative likely provides more financial stability than his previous roles, but without more specific information, it’s hard to make detailed comparisons.

Relationships

Clay Higgins has been married four times. His current wife is Rebecca “Becca” Lee Higgins, whom he married in 2009. Becca works as a nurse, and they have been together for over a decade.

Before Becca, Higgins was married to Kara Seymour from 2003 to 2007. This was his third marriage. His second marriage was to Rosemary “Stormy” Rothkamm-Hambrice, which lasted from 1991 to 1999. During this marriage, Higgins adopted Stormy’s child from a previous relationship, and they had two more children together.

Higgins’ first marriage was to Eloisa Rovati from 1983 to 1991. They had a daughter together who sadly passed away a few months after birth. After their divorce, Eloisa died in a car accident.

These relationships have played a significant role in shaping Higgins’ personal life. He has children from different marriages, which has likely influenced his perspective on family issues. Higgins has faced some public scrutiny over his multiple marriages, as well as allegations of unpaid child support from his second marriage. However, Higgins has maintained that he has worked to resolve these issues.

Hobbies and Interests

Clay Higgins has a range of interests that reflect his background and values. Growing up on a horse ranch, he developed a love for horseback riding. This hobby likely continues to be a way for him to connect with his roots and enjoy the outdoors.

Higgins’ career interests have clearly centered around law enforcement and politics. Even after becoming a congressman, he has maintained his law enforcement credentials, showing his ongoing commitment to this field. His political interests are evident in his role as a U.S. Representative, where he focuses on issues like national security, border control, and energy policy.

Religion plays a significant role in Higgins’ life. He identifies as a Protestant Christian, and his faith often influences his political views and decision-making. Higgins has been known to reference his Christian beliefs in speeches and public statements, indicating that religious activities are likely an important part of his personal life.

While specific hobbies aren’t extensively documented, Higgins’ background and public persona suggest a man who values traditional activities and interests aligned with his southern Louisiana roots and conservative values.

Social Causes

Clay Higgins is known for his strong stances on various social and political issues. He is a firm supporter of gun rights, often citing the Second Amendment in his arguments against gun control measures. Higgins believes that gun ownership is a fundamental right that shouldn’t be heavily regulated.

Border security is another key issue for Higgins. He has been a vocal advocate for stricter border control measures, including supporting the construction of a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border. He sees this as crucial for national security and controlling illegal immigration.

In terms of energy policy, Higgins strongly supports increased fossil fuel production. He often argues for less regulation of the oil and gas industry, seeing it as vital for economic growth and energy independence.

Higgins is also strongly anti-abortion, aligning himself with the pro-life movement. He has compared abortion to the Holocaust in terms of lives lost, showing how deeply he feels about this issue.

These stances reflect Higgins’ conservative political ideology and have been central to his political career and public image.

Skills and Talents

Clay Higgins has developed a unique set of skills throughout his varied career. Perhaps his most notable talent is his distinctive public speaking style. Higgins is known for his direct, often colorful way of communicating. This was first widely noticed in his Crime Stoppers videos and has continued to be a defining feature of his political career.

His background in law enforcement has given Higgins a deep understanding of policing and public safety issues. This experience informs his approach to legislation related to crime and national security.

As a member of Congress, Higgins has had to develop skills in political negotiation and lawmaking. While he’s known for his strong, sometimes controversial stances, he has also had to learn how to work within the political system to advance his goals.

Higgins also showed a talent for video production and media communication through his Crime Stoppers series. These videos went viral, demonstrating his ability to create impactful content that resonates with viewers.

These skills combine to make Higgins a unique figure in American politics, often standing out for his direct communication style and law enforcement perspective.

Controversies

Clay Higgins has been involved in several controversies throughout his career. In 2007, he resigned from the Opelousas Police Department following accusations of using unnecessary force on a suspect and making false statements during an internal investigation.

In 2017, Higgins faced criticism for a video he filmed at the Auschwitz concentration camp. The video, which he later removed and apologized for, was seen as inappropriate and disrespectful to Holocaust victims.

In 2020, Facebook removed one of Higgins’ posts for violating policies against inciting violence. The post suggested using lethal force against armed protesters.

Higgins also stirred controversy by supporting claims of fraud in the 2020 presidential election, despite a lack of evidence. He was one of the representatives who objected to certifying the election results.

These controversies have shaped public perception of Higgins, with supporters seeing him as a straight-talking defender of conservative values, while critics view his actions and statements as inflammatory and divisive.

Public Image

Clay Higgins has cultivated a distinct public image throughout his career. He’s often referred to as the “Cajun John Wayne,” a nickname he earned during his time making Crime Stoppers videos. This nickname reflects his tough-talking, no-nonsense approach to law enforcement and politics.

In the political arena, Higgins is seen as a conservative firebrand. He’s known for his strong stances on issues like gun rights, border security, and energy policy. His supporters view him as a straight-talking defender of traditional values, appreciating his direct communication style and unwavering beliefs.

However, Higgins’ public image is not without controversy. Critics often view him as a divisive figure prone to making inflammatory statements. His strong opinions and sometimes confrontational style have led to several public controversies.

Higgins’ background in law enforcement continues to influence his public image. He often draws on this experience in his political work, presenting himself as someone who understands the realities of crime and public safety.

Overall, Higgins’ public image is complex and polarizing. While some see him as a refreshing voice in politics, others view his approach as too extreme or divisive.

Legacy

Clay Higgins’ legacy is still being shaped as he continues his political career. However, several aspects of his work and public life are likely to have a lasting impact.

In Louisiana politics, Higgins has become a significant figure in the conservative movement. His strong stances on issues like gun rights and energy policy may influence the direction of the state’s Republican party for years to come.

Higgins’ background in law enforcement, combined with his political career, could have a lasting impact on public perceptions of policing and how law enforcement issues are addressed in politics.

His unique communication style, first noticed in his Crime Stoppers videos and continued in his political career, may influence how other politicians communicate with the public. Higgins’ direct, sometimes controversial approach has garnered both praise and criticism, but it has undeniably made him stand out in the political landscape.

In terms of policy, Higgins’ work on energy and border security legislation could have long-term effects. His strong support for the oil and gas industry and his advocacy for stricter border control measures may influence these policy areas beyond his time in office.

While it’s too early to definitively state Higgins’ legacy, his impact on Louisiana politics and his distinctive approach to public service are likely to be remembered and discussed for years to come.

Social Media Profiles

Clay Higgins is active on several social media platforms. On Facebook, he maintains a page under the name “Captain Clay Higgins.” This page is likely a nod to his law enforcement background and the title he held before entering politics.

On Twitter, Higgins uses two handles. @RepClayHiggins is his official account as a U.S. Representative, where he shares updates about his work in Congress, his policy positions, and news from his district. @CaptClayHiggins is his personal account, which may feature more casual content and personal views.

Higgins also has a YouTube channel under the name “Congressman Clay Higgins.” This channel likely hosts videos of his speeches, interviews, and possibly content similar to his famous Crime Stoppers videos.

These social media profiles allow Higgins to communicate directly with his constituents and supporters. They provide a platform for him to share his views, explain his policy positions, and engage with the public in a more immediate and personal way than traditional media allows.

Final Words about Clay Higgins

Clay Higgins has had a varied and sometimes controversial career that has taken him from law enforcement to the halls of Congress. Born and raised in Louisiana, Higgins’ southern roots and conservative values have shaped his approach to both policing and politics. His direct, often colorful communication style, first noticed in his viral Crime Stoppers videos, has become a defining feature of his political career.

As a U.S. Representative, Higgins has been a strong advocate for conservative policies, particularly in areas of border security, gun rights, and energy production. His law enforcement background continues to influence his political work, especially on issues of crime and national security. While his approach has earned him a loyal base of supporters, it has also led to several controversies.

Higgins’ impact on Louisiana politics and his unique style of public service are likely to be remembered and discussed long after his time in office. Whether viewed as a straight-talking defender of traditional values or a controversial figure prone to inflammatory statements, Clay Higgins has undeniably left his mark on the political landscape of Louisiana and beyond.