Senator Jim Banks, Former Focus Staffer, Sworn In to 119th Congress

Indiana native Jim Banks was sworn in as the 51^st United States Senator in the Hoosier State’s 209-year history last week.

The Columbia City native, who previously served four terms in the House of Representatives, is also a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve.

“What an amazing experience to see my husband sworn into the U.S. Senate,” wrote his wife Amanda on Facebook. “I couldn’t be more proud of Jim Banks and honored to be by his side. It was so special to have our family and friends from many stages and places in life there to celebrate with us. A big, sincere thanks to all who made the trip!”

Jim and Amanda have been married since 2005 and have three daughters: Lillian, Elizabeth, and Joann.

Some who made the trip to Washington, D.C. for Jim’s swearing-in were former fellow Focus on the Family colleagues. Before answering the call to public service, both Jim and Amanda served in Focus’ Public Policy Department. In their respective roles, they were responsible for monitoring and championing pro-family policies and legislation both in our nation’s capital and throughout various state policy councils.

Jim and Amanda met as students at Indiana University, where Jim was president of the College Republicans and Amanda was vice president. After Amanda relocated to Colorado Springs following graduation to serve at Focus, now Senator Banks decided to head west to be closer to her as their relationship deepened. After marrying, they returned to Indiana where Jim began pursuing his public service career.

As a member of the U.S. Naval Reserve, then State Senator Banks had to take a leave of absence after being deployed for eight months to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. Amanda assumed his seat in the Indiana Senate, serving admirably and effectively until her husband returned.

People who knew Jim and Amanda weren’t surprised by the unique turn of events, nor have they been shocked by Senator Bank’s electoral progression and legislative success in Washington. Unapologetically pro-life, pro-religious freedom and pro-family, Senator Banks has strongly supported policies that are in the best interests of mothers and fathers and their children.

Senators and members of the House who are raising children all have their own approaches to day-to-day living, of course. Many choose to keep an apartment or rent a room in Washington, D.C., and simply commute back and forth each week (if that) to their respective state or district.

Concerned that their daughters needed to see their father on a full-time basis, the Banks have chosen to maintain a home in both places. Although a financial strain, this means the Senator can take a daily role in their lives.

Early on in their parenting years, the Banks made a decision for Amanda to remain home with the girls.

“I just want knew it was right for me,” Banks said. “It’s by far the hardest job I have ever had. To care for, nurture and raise three little girls is very challenging. I do have days were I think working outside the home would be wonderful. But, it is a privilege to stay home with them and be a primary influence.”

It’s good to be reminded that all members of the 119^th Congress have lives beyond their elected office. Whether still raising children in the home, navigating the challenges of launching kids into adulthood, parenting from afar, dealing with aging relatives, or even managing their own health and advancing years, they would all certainly benefit from our prayers.

Image credit: Amanda Banks