Clay Higgins, a prominent figure in U.S. politics, has drawn significant attention for his legislative work and unwavering conservative principles.
As the U.S. Representative for Louisiana’s 3rd Congressional District, he has built a reputation for his strong stance on key issues, rooted in his military background and law enforcement experience.
Over his career, his leadership and dedication have shaped policy and secured him substantial earnings, reflecting his long-standing commitment to public service.
Glen Clay Higgins was the seventh of eight children born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on January 3, 2017. His parents, who used to train horses, moved to Covington, Louisiana, when he was 6.
He attended Louisiana State University but didn’t graduate. At 18, he enlisted in the Military Police Corps of the Louisiana National Guard.
During his military service, he supported Pat Buchanan’s 1992 presidential campaign and Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke’s gubernatorial campaigns.
Clay Higgins Net Worth: How the Congressman Built His $500K Fortune
Clay Higgins’ military and law enforcement background provided a strong foundation for his career in Congress, shaping his tough-on-crime stance and unwavering advocacy for national security.
His rise to prominence began during his time in law enforcement, where his bold “Cajun John Wayne” persona in viral Crime Stoppers videos captured national attention.
These videos elevated his public profile and established his no-nonsense approach to crime.
Elected to Congress in 2016, he was re-elected multiple times, thanks to his steadfast commitment to conservative principles.
His platform strongly reflects his professional roots, with unyielding support for military veterans, gun rights, and stricter immigration controls.
Among his key legislative achievements is his work to secure critical funding for military and border security operations. Additionally, he has championed policies to improve benefits for veterans and law enforcement personnel, ensuring that those who serve the nation receive the support they deserve.
Clay Higgins earns income primarily as a U.S. Congressman and a reserve law enforcement officer in Louisiana. His career spans military service, law enforcement, and politics, contributing to his financial standing.
He served in the Louisiana National Guard’s Military Police Corps from 1979 to 1985, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. During this time, his annual salary was approximately $47,288.
After leaving the military, he transitioned to civilian work, including a managerial role at car dealerships.
In 2004, he became a patrol officer for the Opelousas City Police Department, where he likely earned around $62,148 per year. However, he resigned before facing disciplinary action.
He later joined the Port Barre Police Department, serving until 2010. In 2011, he moved to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, where he was promoted to Captain and earned an estimated $75,304 annually.
Since being elected to the U.S. Congress, Higgins has earned a congressional salary of $174,000 annually.
As of 2025, his estimated net worth is $500,000, modest compared to some peers but bolstered by his diverse career and strong reputation as a conservative advocate.