Jana Duggar speaks out for first time since scandal broke

Jana Duggar does not have any social media accounts, so it is always noteworthy when she speaks out in interviews or on her family page. That is especially true now, in the wake of the release of older brother Josh Duggar’s police report.

In the caption for the top picture, which was posted on her family’s Facebook page, Jana praised mom Michelle Duggar: “Love spending time with this sweet lady. So thankful to have her as a role model, a friend and a mom! Always love my time with her.”

As with everything the family has done in recent weeks, it seems Jana’s words are intentional — and there is already a great deal of attention being paid to her use of the term “role model.” Although younger sisters Jill Dillard and Jessa Seewald both praised their parents’ response when Josh admitted to molesting them as a teenager, many more have been critical of Jim Bob and Michelle’s actions. Nonetheless, most of the comments on the picture are supportive. (It should also be noted that the family has a history of censoring comments.)

“Your precious Mom is a wonderful role model and woman of faith! She is really an inspiration,” said one commenter

“Hoping the crazy people calm down soon and realize you guys are a good family,” said another. “Every family has its problems even Christian families!”

Jana’s post comes a few days after a new report accused the Duggars of refusing to cooperate just weeks ago with an Arkansas Department of Human Services investigation into the alleged maltreatment of a child. In a recorded 911 call, a DHS employee asked for police assistance. The person said, “We have to see the child to make sure the child is all right.” It’s unclear what happened next.