Joe WalshBorn in 1961, Joe Walsh received a B.A. from the University of Iowa in 1985 and an MPP from the University of Chicago in 1991. He was active as a social worker in the Chicago area and also supported conservative causes and organizations. Walsh was Representative from Illinois from 2011 to 2013, then hosted a talk radio show.
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Arms Trade Treaty
Walsh explicitly opposes ratifying the Arms Trade Treaty. While he has not spoken on it recently, Walsh opposed any attempt to ratify the ATT in Congress during the Obama administration. He introduced a bill in 2011, H.R. 3594, which would have cut off all U.S. support to the United Nations if the treaty were enacted.
Statement following introduction of the Second Amendment Protection Act, December 7, 2011
“The Arms Trade Treaty is bad for America and bad for U.S. gun rights. The Bush Administration had wisely opposed any effort to advance this treaty. Yet quickly into the first year of President Obama's presidency, talks have now resumed and the treaty will soon be voted on next year.
"We must not let the United States get entangled in any agreement that threatens our sovereignty or our constitutional rights. The legislation I introduced today would cut off funding to the United Nations if the U.S. agrees to any treaty that would infringe on our rights. The U.N. needs to be held accountable if they choose to impose these restrictions. The taxpayer should not have to foot the bill for an organization that would impose new rules on private gun ownership.
"I am a firm believer that the right to bear arms is a fundamental right for all Americans. I will continue to defend the Second Amendment and stand on the frontlines with America's gun owners."
Arms Sales to Saudi Coalition
Walsh's position on this issue is unknown. He has expressed uncertainty about the current relationship between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia but has not referenced limiting arms exports or military support specifically.
First Republican presidential debate, September 24, 2019
“Iran's the biggest threat in the Middle East. Saudi Arabia is no great guy either. OK so I worry about with these troops us getting further involved in a region that we shouldn't get involved in. Our men and women ought to be home from Afghanistan by now. We support Israel and we've got to do whatever we can to encourage that part of the world to move toward a democracy. But I don't like us placing resources in there especially placing American troops.”
Firearms Export Reclassification
Walsh’s position on this issue is unknown. He is a strong supporter of Second Amendment rights, but he has not clarified a stance on exports.