Rep. Mark Olson Ranked 3rd Worst Politician in the State.

Olson ranked #3 and Bachmann #1 on Hal Kimball's 10 Worst Political Persons in Minnesota list.

Video of Mark Olson and his PRT Flim-Flam

Was Rep. Mark Olson Aware of Gary Dean Zimmermann's Daily Marijuana Smoking?

From the Minneapolis Issues:

So it appears from the responses I've gotten (MANY back-channel) that Mr. Zimmerman's marijuana habit was in full force not only during his time as a Minneapolis city council person, but for the 20-25 years prior to that (I am not making an accusation, but merely summarizing the responses I have gotten). Nevertheless, if part of Mr. Zimmerman's sentence involves getting help for his addiction to bud, I think we can safely surmise that he had a problem with the smoke.

This is great. We absolutely get what we deserve. We deserve officials that accept bribes and ineffectual city government, if we're electing chronic dope smokers, which in Mr. Zimmerman's case appears to be the worst kept secret in city hall. So, in addition to taking bribes, this guy regularly utilized a substance that is illegal and contributes to crime and violence and the like. He participated in at worst, and tacitly endorsed at the very best, the very criminal element that is shooting each other all over this city. Thanks, Dean. Really great. Time to spend 2-1/2 years with some of the fellas you supported criminally for the last - years.

Mark Olson worked closely with Zimmermann promoting Zimmermann's bizarre PRT Plan for Minneapolis.

If Zimmermann's dope-smoking was "the worst kept secret at City Hall"... how could Rep. Mark Olson not be aware of it?

Mark Olson's PRT Pal Zimmermann sentenced to 2 1/2 Years

Hal Kimball at the Blue man in a Red district blog got the scoop.

More at LloydlettaLloydletta



Personal Rapid Transit is Bogus<

Mark Olson's PRT Pal Zimmermann to be Sentenced Tomorrow

Gary Dean Zimmermann also has loyal supporters who claim he was not guilty....

Read about it at Lloydletta.

Why is "Stretch" Mark Olson Stretching Out the Inevitable?

One answer... from the comments:

It is obvious why MarkO won't resign.

He is just sucking on the public dollar
worse than a "welfare cheat." He must be
unable to make a real living and has
to hang on with his fingernails to the
public paycheck.

It looks like the Legislature will have to remove "Stretch" Mark... what a total waste of time and taxpayers' money... but, "Stretch" Mark has been wasting our time and money for years.

New crop of Sherburne County Citizen LTE's... like this one:

To The Editor,

A letter to the editor last week made a number of false charges. The writer and others issuing similar editorials containing exactly the same phrases in other area newspapers accuse Rep. Olson’s former opponent Jim Huhtala and the DFL of organizing the effort calling for his stepping down. This is a lie.

Mr. Huhtala and the Democratic Party have refused to take any part in calling for Rep. Olson’s resignation until the courts decide on his guilt or innocence. The people who are turning this into a political issue are some supporters of Rep. Olson. The people who are calling for Olson’s resignation are the leaders of the Republican Party. Former speaker Sviggum, minority leader Seifert and even the Governor have called for Olson to step down.

The chairperson of the Sherburne County GOP and former Olson campaign manager said “no comment” when asked if he still supported Rep. Olson. The House Republican caucus unamimously voted to remove Rep. Olson from their caucus. Republican House members have taken away Olson’s staff, a say in their leadership, appointment to committees and any influence he may have had. It is up to the representatives of the Republican Party and Rep. Olson to decide if he should stay in the office. These writers should have aimed their criticism at Republicans, not Jim Huhtala, the DFL or citizens who took the time to express themselves in letters to the editor.

Mark Olson is not the victim here and the writers, the DFL and its candidates are not his prosecutors.

On the issue of privacy. Like everyone else, an elected state representative gives up his right to privacy when he is arrested and charged with two counts of fifth degree assault and spends two nights in jail and is prohibited for visiting his family. Those of us who are asked to vote for him have a right to know and the papers have a duty to tell us.

Tom Beckfeld

Former campaign manager for Jim Huhtala

Big Lake, MN

...another letter...

To The Editor,

I am very troubled since hearing the charges brought against Mark Olson by his wife, Heidi. Spousal abuse is a very serious crime. It often occurs but is seldom reported because of the stigma with it by often tearing the family apart.

From the news reports, Mr. Olson had problems with abuse previously with a staff member in his legislative office and was ordered into treatment by House Speaker Steve Swiggum. Mr. Olson is reported to have started anger management classes but only attended two sessions.

What a shame that no one followed up to see that he completed these classes. In the matter before us now, he claims he is not guilty but by his own admission, he states that he actually did commit what he is charged with.

This time around, Mr. Olson needs to be held accountable for his actions and abide to what the judge will sentence if found guilty in the case. I don’t know if just probation and classes are enough but certainly, no skipping classes this time around.

Mr. Olson needs to resign from his post in the legislature as we cannot allow to have people who abuse, make the laws that protect families. I certainly hope that Heidi and her children can get counseling and will be able to put this behind them. She and her family deserve better and I hope she can rest assured that the community is behind her and will support her in any way we can.

Mavis Holter

Foreston, MN

Bloggers Cover Mark Olson

Eva Young over at Lloydletta let me know that one of the most-read national blogs, Pam's House Blend had a post on Rep. Mark Olson.

Over at SCSU Scholars, King Banian weighs in on Mark Olson's expulsion from the MN Republican Caucus:

I spent a little time Saturday on the air discussing the Mark Olson situation. Yesterday a number of smaller Minnesota papers ran a story speculating on Mary Kiffmeyer's return to politics. I'll repeat what I said then, and mean no disrespect to Mrs. Kiffmeyer, who I hold in high regard: Rep. Olson deserves his day in court. The hastiness with which he has been shunted aside by Republicans is unseemly and smells of the panic of a party that hasn't figured out how to respond to badly behaved public officials in their own ranks. If Olson does step down or is expelled, then it will be time for us to discuss Kiffmeyer's return.

A comment on King's blog:

I understand that there is a destestable and obvious double standard at work when politicians get caught misbehaving. Republicans are driven from office, chased by howling mobs of media mavens and liberal loons. Democrats get tut-tutted by the press and given a chairmanship. My question is, why do Republicans have to help so willingly in the persecution of their own? - J. Ewing

Speaking of howling mobs... "Tracey" one of King Banian's right-wing fans (and a recent guest on his radio show) has a new blog called "Chris Stewart Resign Now!". Now, whatever you think about the embattled Mpls School Board member, the fact is Chris Stewart... is not accused of committing a crime.. What Chris Stewart did was author an anonymous parody of a candidate on a blog. The same blog did a satire of me... (at least I think it was satire).

So... does the right-wing blogosphere agree that satire is cause for asking an office-holder to resign, but getting arrested for and admitting to throwing ("placing") a spouse on the ground three times is no-big-deal conduct for a state representative?

MN GOP Likely to Seek Expulsion if Rep. Mark Olson is Found Guilty

ECM's TW Budig:

Expulsion from Legislature possible in Mark Olson matter

Whether Rep. Mark Olson, R-Big Lake, could face expulsion from the House if found guilty of misdemeanor domestic abuse charges against him seems a possibility.

On Thursday (Dec. 7) the House Republican caucus suspended Olson from the caucus.

According to House Minority Leader Marty Seifert, R-Marshall, to vote to suspend Olson was unanimous. It means Olson cannot use House Republican resources, nor vote with the caucus.

If found innocent, his standing within the caucus could be re-evaluated, Seifert explained.

Seifert said he would not discuss the hypotheticals of the Olson case — it could play out for weeks and have a dozen possible conclusions, he explained.

But Seifert also indicated that should Olson be found guilty of domestic abuse charges, that’s crossing a line. “I don’t think the Legislature is a place for domestic abusers,” he said.

....Mark Olson, however has a different perspective...

Olson doesn’t believe his problem reflects on the Republican House caucus.

People make distinctions between individuals and parties — lumping them together is something the media does, Olson recently argued. “It’s not their (the House caucus’) mistake,” Olson said.

Indeed, Olson dismisses the idea that Republican Congressman Mark Foley — a focus in the recent U.S House page scandal — negatively impacted Minnesota Republican candidates last election. “That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard,” he said of the scandal’s influence.

...the article goes on to describe what it will take to remove Mark Olson from the legislature...

The state constitution requires a two-thirds majority vote for expulsion, but is silent in setting thresholds.

A definition of what constitutes an action meriting expulsion is left unaddressed.

Two things comes to mind... will Mary Kifmeyer wait as Seifert says could be weeks for the process to play out in a "dozen possible conclusions"?... and what will that process cost the taxpayers?

Mark Olson Pleads Not Guilty

Mark Brunswick of the Strib reports:

Rep Mark Olson pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to charges that he assaulted his wife during a domestic dispute Nov. 12. In a court appearance that lasted less than one minute, a pre-trial hearing was set for Jan. 19, and Olson left the courtoroom quickly refusing to comment.

Update: The Saint Cloud Times also has the story... from the comments:

I almost think that Olson wants to drag this out as long as possible. Maybe he is hoping that by the time this is all over we won't care anymore.

Supporters of Mark Olson Write Letters to the Sherburne County Citizen

There's a new crop of LTE's to the Sherburne County Citizen today.

This letter accuses other letter writers of a "reckless abuse of our freedom of speach."

Several editorials have stated that our Rep. Mark Olson used a public defender at taxpayer expense. Did the publishers of this nonsense even think to do a little research first? Or, did an ulterior motive obscure their judgement such that they couldn’t even call Mark to verify the facts?

Well, I interviewed Rep. Olson, and learned that a private attorney approached him at the courthouse and offered his services for free with the option of having Mark retain him later if he liked. I also learned from a judge that one must meet certain income guidelines to qualify for a public defender.

...The news reports I read at the time said Mark Olson had a "court-appointed attorney". The letter goes on to make this point...

Shall we bow to their attempts to try Mark Olson in the lawless court of public opinion, and in so doing lay to waste the US Constitution and the due process that it guarantees? Even with its many flaws, I prefer our legal process to the despotic rule of public opinion, because we have seen that in their attempts to influence the public, certain people cannot limit their editorials to the confines of decency and truth.

That's ironic... On the issue of equal rights for gay citizens, Mark Olson said the majority should decide, not the courts.

More letters HERE.

Media Makes Rep. Mark Olson Look Like a Crazed Wacko

Expect to see more pictures of Mark Olson looking like this.
KARE 11:

For Mark Olson's Supporters, It's a "Kin" Thing

An LTE in the Sherburne County Citizen:

"Mark Olson is one of our own, a native of Sherburne county. To deny him is to turn our back on our own kinsman in favor of mob rule."

...a comment on the Saint Cloud Times message board:

"The Olson family has roots going back to the mid 1800's. Their  familys have been the back-bone of  the  Big Lake/ Becker  area serving on school boards, township supervisors etc.  What Olson did was terrible however  do we need to bash him in this forum?  Iam sure in the long run he will do the right thing."

Like His PRT Pal Gary Dean Zimmermann, Rep. Mark Olson Refuses to Quit

From the Saint Cloud Times:

ST. PAUL — Rep. Mark Olson is heading back to the Minnesota Legislature next month, despite being suspended from the House Republican caucus.

The Big Lake Republican said he hasn't heard from House Minority Leader Marty Seifert, R-Marshall, and doesn't understand a decision he announced Friday that fellow House Republicans had decided to cut ties to Olson, who faces domestic abuse charges.

But the suspension of his caucus membership won't affect his plans to continue representing House District 16B, which includes Becker, Big Lake, Clear Lake and Zimmerman, he said.

"I have a lot of support and I don't see any reason why this would keep me from being able to represent people," he said. "It just won't look good for a while."

Olson is due in court Tuesday in connection to his November arrest. According to a criminal complaint, Olson is accused of shoving his wife and leaving her with bruises.

The decision means Republicans won't supply Olson with staff, support or allow him to caucus with them. The office of House Speaker-elect Margaret Anderson Kelliher, a Democrat, will decide Olson's committee assignments, office and staffing.

Olson said he was waiting for instruction from Kelliher's office but would press on.

"Maybe it means I'm an independent now," he said. "I don't know. I've always been sort of independent."

Looks like Mark Olson will follow the example set by his old PRT-promoting partner Gary Dean Zimmermann... he will go down kicking and screaming, dragging his party down with him like Zimmermann did. Zimmermann e-mailed his supporters to announce he is scheduled to be sentenced on the 19th of December.

What a sad and sordid end for these two PRT-promoting politicians... remember those heady, optimistic days when the future of PRT in MInnesota never looked brighter? Remember the breathless reporting of Taxi 2000's open house when Rep. Mark Olson and PRT guru J. Edward Anderson unveiled the shiny red pod to the media?

From the moribund Taxi 2000 website:

Over 50 people attended and everyone got at least one ride in the Skyweb Express car. Mark Olson gave a great speech, some of which was quoted in a Minneapolis - St. Paul Star Tribune article by Laurie Blake.
Minneapolis/St. Paul channels 5 (KSTP) and 11 (KARE) featured the story on morning, noon, evening and nighttime news shows. At least a dozen newspaper reporters from as many publications attended and asked good questions. ProMedia video-taped the event, and after editing, plan to broadcast it to about 850 television stations nationwide.

I wonder if reporters will interview Fridley's J. Edward Anderson about what happened to Mark Olson and Gary Dean Zimmermann?

Check out the new J. Edward Anderson Wikipedia page (before the PRTistas take a meat-axe to it).

Governor Pawlenty Urges Mark Olson to Resign

Associated Press:

Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty joined in the call Friday.

"If it turns out that he is found guilty or pleads guilty to the conduct alleged, it's just not appropriate for him to be serving in the Legislature," Pawlenty said.

Looks like all the local news stations will be covering this story tonight.

Mark Olson better take another look at his own campaign literature:

More About Minnesota Republicans Cutting Ties with Mark Olson

Star News Reports:

If Olson resigns, Kiffmeyer seen as possible candidate

by T.W. Budig
ECM capitol reporter

Minnesota Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer will leave office in January, one of the victims of the Democratic wave that swept many Republicans from office.

But a chance for Kiffmeyer to step back into elective office might open soon.

...Kiffmeyer gives a few hints to Mark Olson about resigning so she can get back into government...

Kiffmeyer, though reluctant to talk in specifics about the Olson situation, said she is seen as a possible replacement for Olson.

“There’s been lots of folks calling and talking and wanting us to do that (consider running for the House) since, I think, the day it happened,” said Kiffmeyer, of Big Lake.

Olson was arrested Nov. 12.

“I think we ought to be fair to Mark Olson and not jump the gun yet — I think it’s a matter of being fair and respectful,” said Kiffmeyer.

Yet Kiffmeyer indicated that if Olson is found guilty of domestic assault, as a practical political matter she doubts whether he could remain in office.

Beyond this, Olson’s family situation is more important than the politics, she said.

...Mark Olson doesn't seem to get Mary's message...

Olson, while refusing to answer “hypothetical” questions, explained that he didn’t see why he should consider doing anything different in his political career at this point.

People are innocent until proven guilty, he said.

There is a lot of misinformation out in the public about the situation, he said.

“I feel it grievous that my family has to go through this,” he said.

Olson said the media has insulted his family — knocking on the door of the family home, bothering his wife.

By the grace of God, he goes on day to day, Olson said.

...the article goes on to list a few more reasons for Olson step aside for Kiffmeyer...

A Republican activist prior to running for the office, Kiffmeyer’s husband, Ralph, served in the Minnesota Legislature.

“She’d be an automatic win, I think,” said House Minority Leader-elect Marty Seifert, R-Marshall.

Seifert — who has not spoken to Kiffmeyer about a run for the House — said Kiffmeyer would bring to a House race universal name recognition, an ability to raise money and a generally conservative political view.

From the City Pages:

Minnesota Republicans Cut Ties With Mark Olson

KSTP Eyewitness News reports:

Minnesota House Republicans are breaking off ties with a fellow GOP legislator facing domestic abuse charges.

Republicans voted Thursday to oust seven-term Representative Mark Olson of Big Lake from the caucus. In short, they won't supply him with staff support or other services. Caucus spokeswoman Jodi Boyne says the move means -- quote -- "Basically, he's on his own."

Olson says he'll hang in there.

UPDATE! More from Minnesota Public Radio:

Rep. Olson dumped from House GOP caucus

by Tom Scheck, Minnesota Public Radio
December 8, 2006

St. Paul, Minn. — Republicans in the Minnesota House have voted to suspend Rep. Mark Olson from their caucus just five days before Olson is scheduled to make a court appearance on domestic assault charges.

House Minority Leader Marty Seifert says caucus members voted unanimously on Thursday night to suspend Olson from the caucus. Olson was not present at the meeting. Olson is charged with two counts of misdemeanor domestic assault against his wife.

The Big Lake Republican is scheduled to be arraigned in Sherburne County Court on Tuesday. Seifert says Olson should be removed from the Legislature if he's found guilty.

Seifert turns up the heat on Olson:

"It's best that Rep. Olson get his personal affairs in order and get through his court situation. And, as I said last week, that if he knows in his mind that he did this then he ought to be out of the Legislature," Seifert said.

Rep. Joyce Peppin, R-Maple Grove, says she voted to suspend Olson from the caucus and will ask him to resign his seat if he's found guilty.

"This isn't one of our Republicans values," she said. "It's not acceptable behavior for any member of the Legislature or for any member of Minnesota for that matter."

Rep. Seifert says he has not spoken with Olson since the incident occurred last month. MPR was unable to contact Olson. He has been ordered to have no contact with his wife.

It will be interesting how the Saint Cloud Times, the Star News and Sherburne County Citizen report this.

There's a thread on this latest development at Democratic Underground.

Mark Olson Wikipedia Page

I put up a Mark Olson Wikipedia page. Already, a PRT promoter from Seattle has "edited" it.

Hal Kimball: "Mark Olson Under Fire!"

Hal Kimball blogs from Annandale, Minnesota. Read his collection of Saint Cloud Times comments at Blue man in a Red district.

Will Rep. Mark Olson Refuse to Step Down if Convicted of Domestic Assault?

The new House Minority Leader Marty Seifert was on Almanac last week and answered a question about Mark Olson this way; "If he's guiity he should leave... We're not going to be like the Washington people and say this is a Republican seat.. highest ethical standards... you're gone."

But, Mark Olson may not go quietly.

The latest issue of the Sherburne County Citizen has this letter to the editor from one of Mark Olson's loyal supporters:

To The Editor,

I want to tell the people of House District 16B that we have been well represented by Mark Olson. He’s good for America. I know him as a personal friend, and it hurts me to see all the false accusations leveled against him. I admit to being biased in favor of Mark, but any person’s bias does not justify false and libelous accusations. It does not give license to draw hasty negative conclusions based on limited, or false information.

The newspapers have painted Mark as a violent, hot-tempered man. He has been maligned in the press as a wife beater, yet he is not even being charged with that.

I know Mark Olson. He strives to maintain a gentle soul and still has my support. Look at his last campaign as an example. Have you ever seen a negative attack ad from him, or a pattern of angry outbursts in forums or debates? I’ve campaigned with Mark and watched him often take verbal beatings with patience and respect for the people that he is dealing with.

Yes, everyone makes mistakes, but how many politicians do you know will admit their mistakes? When a person owns up to doing wrong, it does not justify the action, but it tells you a lot about that person. Admitting mistakes assures us that we will get the same good representation in the future.

There is a common thread with these false accusations. They are mostly from people who oppose Mark’s Pro-American, limited-tax ideals that this country was founded on. Most of the letters reflect a socialist agenda referring to things like universal healthcare. These editorials have all accused Mark of being guilty of allegations before he has had his day in court and that’s Un-American.

Most married couples have had some type of an altercation, yet it stays hidden from public scrutiny. I am sick and tired of people taking pop shots at Mark and Heidi Olson’s public service. I would like to know what skeletons Mark Olson’s critics have hidden in their family closets, sometimes reflected in the angry, bitter and scornful letters.

Mark Olson is one of our own, a native of Sherburne county. To deny him is to turn our back on our own kinsman in favor of mob rule.

Randy Seeley

Clear Lake, MN

Here's another letter to the editor that asks for Mark Olson's immediate resignation:

To The Editor,

In his most recent letter to the editor of the Sherburne County Citizen, Rep. Mark Olson claims that “a respectful and detailed response will be forth coming as the process permits,” and “public pressure and scrutiny are blessings for which I am truly grateful.” He must think his constituents are stupid and know nothing about domestic abuse and denial, while he “prepares” us for explaining away his actions of Nov. 12.

Recall that Mr. Olson, tearfully clutching his bible, asked forgiveness from God, his wife and family, and the public. At the time of his release from jail he said “...I have failed and I want to take responsibility for that. I ask for everyone’s forgiveness in my wrong...” Just what did he fail at, what is his “wrong,” what is he asking forgiveness for?

Is it for his actions Nov. 12 for which he was arrested and jailed?

Is it for his hypocrisy of campaigning for family values, but not living up to them?

Is it for pledging to hold legislators accountable for unethical/illegal activities while stubbornly refusing to be accountable for his own?

Is it for his own irresponsible character after supporting a character education bill in the legislature?

Is it for living a charade, hoping his dark side would not be revealed?

Forgive? Yes, voters can and should forgive Mr. Olson. Forget? No, we should not forget that he was arrested for domestic assault Nov. 12, that he is our elected public official, paid by us to represent us, and that he is relying on a public defender, rather than paying for his own legal fees.

Mr. Olson is making a mockery of his office and position and should resign immediately.

Kenzie Phelps
Clear Lake, MN

More letters to the editor about Rep. Mark Olson at the West Sherburne Tribune .

Will Mark Olson listen to his supporters and resist the calls for him to resign?

Kiffmeyer Talks About Running in 16B Special Election... Mark Olson's Latest Statements

Sounds like the Minnesota Republican Party is throwing Mark Olson under the bus.

T.W. Budig ECM capitol reporter:



Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer will leave office in January, one of the victims of the Democratic wave that swept many Republicans from office.

But a chance for Kiffmeyer to step back into elective office might open soon.


Rep. Mark Olson, R-Big Lake, was recently arrested for domestic assault and though giving no indication that he would resign from the House, Olson’s political future is at best cloudy.


The House Republican caucus has indicated that an ethics complaint against Olson could come from within the caucus.

...That's a pretty big hint for Olson to resign... the head of the House Ethics Committee is Rep. Sondra Erickson, a fellow Republican from neighboring House District 16A...



House Speaker Steve Sviggum, R-Kenyon, stated that if Olson is found guilty of misdemeanor domestic assault charges, he personally would recommend Olson resign from office.

Kiffmeyer, though reluctant to talk in specifics about the Olson situation, said she is seen as a possible replacement for Olson. “There’s been lots of folks calling and talking and wanting us to do that (consider running for the House) since I think the day it happened,” said Kiffmeyer, of Big Lake.

Olson was arrested on Nov. 12.


“I think we ought to be fair to Mark Olson and not jump the gun yet — I think it’s a matter of being fair and respectful,” said Kiffmeyer.


Yet Kiffmeyer indicated that if Olson is found guilty of domestic assault, as a practical political matter she doubts whether he could remain in office.


Beyond this, Olson’s family situation is more important than the politics, she opined.

A court appearance for Olson is scheduled for Dec. 12 at 8 a.m. in Sherburne County District Court in Elk River.

...The article goes on to talk about Kiffmeyer and her political future...



A Republican activist prior to running for the office, Kiffmeyer’s husband, Ralph, served in the Minnesota Legislature.

“She’d be an automatic win, I think,” said House Minority Leader-elect Marty Seifert, R-Marshall. Seifert — who has not spoken to Kiffmeyer about a run for the House, he explained — said Kiffmeyer would bring to a House race universal name recognition, an ability to raise money, and a generally conservative political view.

Though smiling tightly when considering the necessity of running for office every two years instead of four, Kiffmeyer said campaigning gives her an opportunity to meet with the people. “I love doing that,” she said.


In terms of logistics, Kiffmeyer, who visited all 87 Minnesota counties in her failed re-election bid, sees running a House campaign as much simpler.


“A House district within 30 miles — that would be a piece of cake,” she said.


Olson, re-elected to an eighth-term last election in District 16B, won with 58 percent of the vote.

“That you’re standing at 2 a.m. in the morning having you’re wits about you is a major accomplishment,” said Kiffmeyer, explaining Election Day for her both politically and professionally was a big day.


Kiffmeyer explained her campaign polling had her with a double-digit lead prior to the Congressional House page scandal.


After the Foley scandal broke, her polling showed her lead  halved, she said.


Additionally, Kiffmeyer argues that Minnesota voter turnout suggests people, Republicans, stayed home.


“Without (Congressman) Mark Foley, maybe I could have withstood that,” she said.


Her approach to public office is it’s about the work, not about her, said Kiffmeyer.

The article ends with a few comments from Rep. Mark Olson:


While refusing to answer “hypothetical” questions, Olson explained that he didn’t see why he should consider doing anything different in his political career at this point.

People are innocent until proven guilty, he said.


There is a lot of misinformation out in the public about the situation, he said.


“I feel it grievous that my family has to go through this,” he said.


Olson said the media has insulted his family — knocking on the door of the family home, bothering his wife.

By the grace of God, he goes on day to day, Olson said.

Mark Olson sounds like he's in huge denial. For one, he didn't enter a plea when he was charged with domestic assault. If Olson's believes now that he is "innocent", shouldn't he change his plea to "not guilty"?

His concern for "his family" also sounds hollow considering he is the person that put them in this situation.


Also this week, Mark Olson's PRT pal Gary Dean Zimmermann announced the date that he will be sentenced for his bribery conviction in an e-mail to his supporters:

"A sentencing date has been set for 1:30 pm, Tuesday, December 19^th . This will take place on the 13^th Floor of the Mpls Federal Court House, the same building where the trial was held. I expect that I will have to report to a prison sometime around January 16^th . Any appeals will be filed at time of sentencing. Right now we have not made any decisions about what appeals may be made or on what grounds."

Full text of Zimmmermann's e-mail is at the Green Party Gone Bad Blog.

More Letters to the Editor About Rep. Mark Olson's Arrest for Domestic Violence

From the Star Tribune:

DOMESTIC ABUSE CHARGES

Olson should resign

Accused State Rep. Mark Olson, R-Big Lake, must resign immediately ("Legislator faces charges of domestic assault," Nov. 14). Anything less belies the gravity of domestic abuse, spousal assault and women's rights.

Just three days after his eighth successful election to the Minnesota House, Olson was arrested at his home after an argument with his wife, Heidi. Olson admitted grabbing her by the shoulders and "placing" her on the ground.

He entered no plea during his court appearance, and his trial is set for Dec. 12. He was released without bail on the condition that he stay away from his wife and five children. "I have failed and I want to be responsible for that," he said.

Most disgusting of all, he said: "I'm grateful for my wife's ability to speak up." It isn't easy to speak out against domestic violence in a culture where victims, predominantly women, are blamed and questioned when they do raise their voices. That's why one of every three women you know probably haven't told you that she's suffered some form of violence at the hands of a partner. Awful statistics like these will carry on if we don't treat domestic violence as the serious crime it is.

ERIN MATSON, MINNEAPOLIS
BOARD MEMBER,
NATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN

From the Saint Cloud Times:

Letter: Officials don't always practice what they preach
By Denny Smith St. Cloud

Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich resigned under pressure after cheating on his second wife. This came after he divorced his first wife while she was in the hospital with cancer.

State Rep. Mark Olson was recently charged with assault after throwing his wife to the ground three times during a domestic dispute.

What do these two men have in common? They are both leaders in the Republican Party's crusade to "save marriage" by banning gay people the right to civil unions.

Kind of reminds me of a conversation overheard at a coffee shop. "My ex-wife's daughter from her second marriage is the mistress of a congressman who thinks that gay people are a threat to the institution of marriage."

Sherburne County Citizen: Mark Olson Still Refuses to Resign

From the Sherburne County Citizen:

Saturday, November 25, 2006

Olson refuses to step down

By Jennifer Edwards
Contributing Writer

Although he does not expect there will be one, the Sherburne County Democratic Party is prepared for a special election if Rep. Mark Olson resigns from office, says Democrat Jim Huhtala, who lost the recent election to Olson.

“Strange things happen,” Huhtala said. “There would have to be a groundswell from the voters.”

Olson appeared in Sherburne County Court last Tuesday after being arrested by the Blaine Police at a church school in Blaine around 7:45 p.m. Sunday (Nov. 12), on charges he assaulted his wife.

Olson has said he will not resign his position. However House Speaker Steve Sviggum says he will ask for Olson’s resignation if he is found guilty of the two 5th degree domestic assault charges.

Huhtala had no comment on Olson’s arrest, saying, “If it doesn’t move the democratic agenda forward, we aren’t going to deal with it. We’re not just talking politicians here. Domestic abuse is a pretty prevalent issue in our society. The election is over. Mark won. This issue is between him and his wife.”

Chair of the Sherburne County Republican party Mark Swanson said the party would follow their basic political organizational constitution in the event a special election becomes necessary. It would fall to them to nominate a new Republican candidate.

“I can’t say anything about that,” Swanson said. “He (Olson) has talked to our organization.”

When asked if he still supported Olson, Swanson said, “No comment.”

...No comment? That doesn't sound like a vote of confidence....

While there is no official comment, the likely candidate would be Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer, who lost her bid for reelection this year.

Kiffmeyer, who lives in Big Lake Township, upgraded election technology while in office and points out that Minnesota leads the nation in voter turnout. She has not ruled out running in a special election.

“I am open to anything,” she said.

...sounds like Mary's going to run.... now on to Mark Olson....

Olson, who is scheduled to reappear in court to answer the charges Dec. 12, spent two nights in jail asked for forgiveness from God, his wife, his family and the public when he was released last week.

Olson declined to enter a plea to the charges and appeared without an attorney. The court appointed an attorney for him. He was released on his own recognizance and ordered to stay away from his wife and family and their home. He was permitted to retrieve his personal belongings.

Olson denies allegations he has been abusive to his legislative aides in the past, specifically throwing a typewriter at a secretary after his first term in office and yelling at his legislative aide in 1997.

...interesting...

Sviggum took away his secretary after the first incident and recommended Olson receive counseling after the second. He attended only two meetings. No legal charges were filed.

Olson initially said this was the first time he had heard these allegations.

...um, there were these articles in the newspapers....

“Where is the evidence?” he asked. “Strange things happened about that time. Files were removed from my office. I have no choice in my staff and no way of knowing if they are friend or foe. Initially it was rumors. Now it is unsubstantiated allegations.”

...What is Olson talking about?. He sounds paranoid...

Olson admits he was asked to meet with an employee relations counselor and missed meetings he said he was never told about. He admitted he never wrote letters of apology he was asked to write.

“They had a file they never let me see. I should have had a lawyer then,” he said. “I have never denied anger before and I have struggled with it at times. This is not the time for me to respond to falsehoods. It is a difficult time to communicate with the public. I hope this is resolved in the extent that it can be. The first time I heard about it was at the caucuses.”

Wait! Don't end the article there! The first time he heard about what? and it was at the 2006 caucuses? What is Olson talking about? Too bad the mainstream press is ignoring this story. The Sherburne County Citizen is too small to do an investigation.

Olson has a letter:

To The Editor,

I sincerely want to thank those who took the initiative to write with their concerns about the recent allegations I'm faced with. A respectful and detailed response will be forth coming as the process permits.

It should be noted, given the serious nature of these allegations, I hope writers are careful to not convict with inaccurate information before the judicial process is complete. Public pressure and scrutiny are blessings for which I am truly grateful. Again, thank you for writing.

Mark Olson

Big Lake, MN

There's a letter in support of Olson:

To The Editor,

It’s very disappointing to observe how few letters to the editor - Re: Olson - remember God’s word. Found in John 8:v7 “Let him that is without sin, cast the first stone”, Matt. 7:v1 “Judge not, that you be not judged.”

Romans 14:10 “But why do you judge your brother? Or why do you show contempt for your brother? For we shall All stand before the judgement seat of Christ.” Matthew 5:7 “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.”

1 Samuel 16:7 For the Lord does not see as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

May our hearts be right with God on the day of our judgement.

Elaine E. Martin

Big Lake, MN

Ever notice that right-wing Republicans only quote the Gospels when they get in trouble? On all other occasions, especially when they are going after gays they prefer the Old Testament, particularly Leviticus.

Here's another letter:

To The Editor,

When I read of Rep. Mark Olson’s arrest for domestic abuse I was gravely concerned for the safety of his spouse and children. Domestic abuse often remains under reported as the victim fears violent retaliation from the abuser. I hope the community is supporting Heidi Olson for her brave act.

When I read Rep. Olson’s remarks about the incident, I became very alarmed. “A guilty plea would not be appropriate?” “Placed her on the ground.” Those statements lead me to the conclusion that Rep. Olson is in deep denial of his violent actions.

The inability to acknowledge his actions and recognize violence as criminal behavior lead me to ask Rep. Olson to resign from representing the citizens of Sherburne County.

Jo Weis

St. Cloud, MN

This letter brings up some other concerns:

To The Editor,

I read with interest the Citizen article on Mark Olson’s arrest as well as the several letters calling for his resignation. I agree he should resign, but not only for his domestic dispute.

These things are always more complicated than they might appear at first glance. The warring couple has been separated. That is good. Now we should let justice take it’s course.

On the other hand, Mark Olson should resign immediately because of what he is guilty of in his public life, and that would be hypocrisy on a grand scale. This is a man who is always quick to pass judgement on those who are victims of the same kinds of human frailities for which he has now been outed.

Like Jim Bakker, Jimmy Swaggert, Rush Limbaugh and most recently, Ted Haggard, Mark Olson should seek help with removing the plank from his own eye before he should ever again presume to be the one to remove the sliver from the eye of another.

In real terms that might mean something like putting the gay marriage issue on the back burner for now while he looks a little deeper into some of the issues surrounding his own heterosexual marriage.

It could also mean examining his claims that others are only after a free ride when he relys on a public defender. Mark claims to be a Christian. Jesus Christ, the namesake of his faith, said “judge not lest ye be judged”. Mark is now experiencing the “lest ye be judged” part of that equation. He says he has no intention of resigning.

That is a mistake. He has not yet been humbled. We tolerate hypocrites, we don’t tolerate unrepentent hypocrites who have been publicly exposed. His days in public office are numbered. The only question is, will he go gracefully. Knowing him and his kind, one would guess not.

Ron Thiessen

Becker, MN

Pam Spaulding: "Is there anything in the bible about beating your wife, Olson?"

Anti-gay Minnesota lawmaker charged with domestic violence has a history of abuse at the office as well

Friday, November 24, 2006

Avidor at Dump Mark Olson has passed along more information about the sleazy Republican Minnesota representative, who was recently seen boo-hooing for the cameras after being charged with two counts of domestic assault for shoving his wife to the ground several times. He says that he will not resign. Hear the audio of him begging for forgiveness in front of the reporters.

Read more at Pam's House Blend.

Gary Dean Zimmermann on Rep. Mark Olson's Arrest

I asked Gary Dean Zimmermann to comment about Rep. Mark Olson's arrest and whether he would work with Mark Olson on PRT after they both got out of jail.

When Will the Media Report the Truth About Mark Olson ?

As I've posted earlier, the media has not been doing a good job covering Mark Olson's arrest for assaulting his wife. They've failed to report facts that reveal Mark Olson's long history of violent behavior towards women.

In recent days this blog has received anonymous comments and tips that show another side of the supposedly pious and devout state representative from Big Lake.

One reader commented on Mark Olson's self-serving statements about his religion and "character" published without scrutiny by the media:

...Can’t believe the people who went to high school with the Olson brothers haven’t reflected on their bully behaviors towards younger and weaker students, drug and alcohol abuse, barely passing through high school if not for their Daddy’s influence (and you wonder why he appears functionally illiterate????

Here is a photo from 1973 that shows a long-haired Mark Olson on a senior class trip, perched on a piano like a hippie version of Marlene Dietrich:



That aint milk and cookies sitting next to the Big Lake crooner:



A reader in Sherburne County asked me to review the facts in the case:

November 12th, Rep, Olson was arrested for 5th degree assault after abusing his wife. The police were call by a friend of Mrs. Olson and when they responded to the Olson household they were told by Mrs. Olson that Mark had pushed her down 3 times and the police found bruises on her. Mark claimed he “placed her on the ground”.

Mark was arrested at a Christian school in Blaine by Sherburne County Sheriffs.

Mark entered a non plea at his hearing on Tuesday claiming “a guilty plea would be inappropriate” and a not guilty plea would suggest he was “avoiding responsibility”.
Mark was released without bail pending his hearing Dec. 12th and allowed 1 visit home under the supervision of police to retrieve his personal belongings. Mark is not allowed to have contact with his wife or her children. 5th degree assault is a gross misdemeanor and carries a maximum fine of $1000 and 90 days in jail.

#1 It is apparent that Rep. Olson has not come to grips with the fact that he abused and terrorized his wife and family. It is not the first time he has terrorized a woman and his history goes back to 1994. His rationalizing statements shows he is not prepared to make the changes necessary to qualify him to be our Representative.

#2 Mark ran on a platform of “traditional family values”. Mark is the co-author of the “defense of marriage” bill. Mark proudly proclaimed his support of the “Character education bill” which is intended to curb violence in schools. Marks personal actions show the hypocrisy of his positions.

#3 Mark is well known for cutting social programs and encouraging the poor to “pull them self’s up by the boot straps.” Why then did the he seek government aid in getting a court appointed lawyer paid for by the tax payers of Sherburne county. Certainly the Olson family could afford a lawyer. Once again Mark is not accepting the consequents of his actions. Why should the tax payers of Sherburne County pay for his actions?

#4 Mark is well known for always carrying a gun. Was he carrying a gun with him when the abuse occurred or when he was arrested at the school? If so then there are much more serious charges that need to be leveled.

Keep sending me comments and tips. Send letters and e-mails to the editors of the Pioneer Press and the Star Tribune.

Pioneer Press Columnist Craig Westover Says Mark Olson's Arrest for Assault is a "Personal" Problem

Craig Westover is the columnist for the Pioneer Press who recently had to eat crow for getting his facts wrong when he slammed Colleen Rowley for something she never did.

Seems Craig Westover hasn't learned his lesson.

I posted a comment on his blog asking him to write a PiPress column on Mark Olson's arrest... that was it ...just a polite request for an opinion.

Westover erased my comment and replaced it with This angry remark:





Avidor --

This is not a billboard for you your site with off topic posts. Mark Olson's personal problems are just that -- personal -- as were Andrew Bourne's. You've got plenty of outlets for your rants. Not here.

Edited By Siteowner
Avidor | Homepage | 11.18.06 - 10:45 am | #

I think Westover meant to type "Andrew Borene".

Andrew Borene's public life ended when he dropped out of his Senate race last summer:

That doesn't stop Craig Westover from dragging (and misspelling ) Andrew Borene's name through the muck by comparing the Iraq War veteran to Sherburne County's self-described wife-"placer" Mark Olson.

What is more outrageous is that Andrew Borene, as far as I know, was not charged with a crime, admitted his problem (alcoholism), took responsibility and dropped out of the election.

Olson has admitted to "placing" his wife on the ground (causing a fresh, visible bruise) and refused to enter a plea when charged with 5th degree domestic assault. Olson has accepted a public defender (at taxpayers' expense) and he has refused to resign his House seat.

Incredible.

Comment on Mark Olson: "I am so disgusted and insulted with the blatant lies and deceptions of this Bible carrying bully"

The Twin Cities' media is letting Mark Olson's arrest for domestic assault slip into Orwell's "memory hole". That's a shame. In small towns in places like Sherburne County, the local media rarely covers controversial news. That seems to be what is happening with the arrest of Mark Olson:

From the Comments:

Anonymous said...

It should be pointed out the headline and story “Media Aggressive in their Coverage - Olson Reflects On Assault Charges” in the Citizen was not the main headlines / article on the front page. Rather the Citizen thought the following 3 stories were more important with larger headlines and photos:

1) Clearview (neighboring town) Veteran’s Day program event that occurred before the previous weeks edition (Oct. 10) was more significant - One would think this story was more relevant in the Nov 11 edition????

2) A story about Liberty Paper delivering $250 in Thanksgiving “coupons” - rather a meager gesture considering the city could buy them a $5 million dollar water tower and now pay for the sewer stench created from paper waste

3) and Mark Olson’s brother is starting a new facilities advisory committee for the Public school.

Then the “newspaper” puts in the nice little campaign photo - instead of the crazy eyed creepy mug shot like the other newspapers. The editorial section was devoted in support of deer hunting? There is a reason the paper is free - we’re getting exactly what we paid for.

I’ve been surfing the blogs …. Can’t believe the people who went to high school with the Olson brothers haven’t reflected on their bully behaviors towards younger and weaker students, drug and alcohol abuse, barely passing through high school if not for their Daddy’s influence (and you wonder why he appears functionally illiterate????

Why are people so quick in assuming he‘s capable of reading the Bible - let alone comprehension?). Where does Sviggum come off saying he is a perfectionist - high standards. He couldn’t make it in the housing / contractor market, so he goes off into politics….. And there were record highs and profits (just who we need in the legislation considering Minnesota budget concerns). Also, this helps to explain his financial need for a public defender for everybody who wonders why he’s “chosen” to be a burden on taxpayers.

It’s not surprising he was abusive while in office towards women - he’s the same person a lot of us have known since childhood. He hasn’t changed except in his pretense of finding religion. I am so disgusted and insulted with the blatant lies and deceptions of this Bible carrying bully. Although I bet his ex-aid wished he’d been carrying a Bible the day he needed to find something to throw at her instead of a typewriter.

Another comment:

Anonymous said...

"when I take a hit, my supporters take a hit too.", said Mark.

Well, apparently Mark did not "take a hit" he gave a hit, beating his wife. Or maybe his "supporter" is his wife and she took a "hit", or many hits.

get rid of this guy.

Keep sending me comments and tips. Send letters and e-mails to the editors of the Pioneer Press and the Star Tribune.

Tell them that a man with a history of losing his temper, who has stubbornly refused to plead to a charge of 5th degree domestic assault should not be allowed to serve in the Minnesota Legislature.

Mark Olson Gloated About the 16b Election Before His Arrest for Domestic Assault

The Bible says "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18)

It is ironic that Rep. Mark Olson didn't heed that advice when he bragged about defeating DFLer Jim Huhtala at the polls in the interview in an Sherburne County Citizen.

Olson tells reporter Ken Francis why he thinks he won:

“I don’t fit the mold,” Olson said, referring to the partisan politics that has pitted Republicans against Democrats. “I set out (years ago) to not participate in the things people don’t like about politics and politicians.”

...The reporter fails to ask what "things" Olson is talking about... but, on to Olson's opposition to Northstar:

“Even people who didn’t agree with me on Northstar liked what I was saying on other issues,” he says. “I follow through on what I say.”

... Even when Mark Olson was proven wrong about rail transit and nearly legislator including the leadership in Olson's own party says he was wrong about Northstar, Olson stubbornly sticks to "Stay the course!"...

[Olson] said people appreciated his candid and informative responses to letters to the editor, many of which he says were based on half-truths and misinformation.

“I’m encouraged that people in this area are paying attention to the issues and not on political rhetoric,” he said.

Rep. Olson must be referring to these letters he posted on his campaign website.

In this letter Olson said the following:

Dear Editor,
Thank you for providing a good service in support of some important political debate.  I appreciate that Ms. Joyce LeClair has stated her concerns about how my time is being spent as well as Mr. Ken Avidor and his PRT points.  Given the nature of their statements, a public discussion is very important.

 

Mark Olson had several opportunities to debate me over the years, but he ran from me every time. Mark Olson got elected because he lied about PRT and the media never investigated his lies. If the voters of 16b knew the truth about Mark Olson and Gary Dean Zimmermann's PRT scam, I doubt that the election would have turned out the way it did.

Here's another Bible quote for Mark Olson:

Better to be slow to anger than to be a mighty warrior, and one who controls his temper is better than one who captures a city" (Proverbs 16:32)

Sherburne Citizen Newspaper: "Olson Reflects On Assault Charges"

Don't you love that headline? It conjures up a benign image of a calm and contemplative Mark Olson "reflecting" on his arrest for assaulting his wife. It's far from the account I heard of a wild-eyed and incoherent Mark Olson revealed in this mugshot:



Here's the article in the Sherburne County Citizen Newspaper:

Sunday, November 19, 2006
By Jennifer Edwards

Rep. Mark Olson this week was charged with two counts of domestic abuse five days after being re-elected for the eighth time to the Minnesota House of Representatives with 58% of the vote.

“I cannot comment further on the case,” Olson said Thursday. “One thing I realized the first time I ran for re-election is that when I take a hit, my supporters take a hit too. I have never felt so unworthy of support in my life, yet they have still been supporting me. I can’t tell you how much that means, how much I appreciate that.”

Heidi Olson said she has no comment on her husband Mark’s arrest on domestic assault charges but that she may choose to issue a public statement once the case is settled.

“As the wife of a public figure, I know I have to deal with the media,” she said Wednesday. “But I was totally unprepared for the invasion that followed once the story came out.”

Olson, a public health nurse for Wright County and mother of five, said she and her children were forced to leave their home because media representatives from the Twin Cities invaded her Big Lake Township property.

“I find it disturbing that my right to privacy was not respected,” she said. “My address and pictures of my house were everywhere at a time when people now know I am here alone. I find that very scary. We have been locking things up tightly around here but it does make me nervous and it worries my children.”

Heidi Olson did the right thing and she and her children are the ones paying the penalty. Mark Olson, by contrast has gotten the kid-glove treatment by the major media. As I've pointed out in another post, The Star Tribune and the Minnesota Daily editorial boards called for the resignation of Chris Stewart, just-elected to the to the Minneapolis School Board, but has not called for Mark Olson's resignation. What was Chris Stewart's "crime"? He authored a satirical website.

Olson was arrested Sunday at a church school in Blaine. He was taken to Sherburne County Court House and spent two nights in jail before appearing in court Tuesday morning. Olson appeared before the judge clutching a Bible.

A court appointed attorney said Olson preferred not to enter a plea to the charges.

A court-appointed attorney? That's ironic. Mark Olson cannot afford his own lawyer? I should note that Olson's PRT pal Gary Dean Zimmmermann was also defended by a lawyer provided by the taxpayers even though he owned hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of property.

A guilty plea would not be appropriate, but a not-guilty plea might suggest he was avoiding responsibility, he said.

...No,"avoiding responsibility" means leaving the decision up to the judge...

According to the criminal complaint, the police were called to Olson’s home late Sunday afternoon after Olson pushed his wife, Heidi, to the ground three times during the course of an argument. The impact was sufficient to leave her bruised. Olson told investigators he grabbed his wife and “placed her” on the ground.

...like an inanimate object... a piece of furniture...

Olson, 51, left the courtroom, asking for forgiveness from God, his wife and family and the public.

“I want to do everything I can to make that right, as right as I can,” he said. “I have failed and I want to be responsible for that. I ask for everyone’s forgiveness in my wrong, and that will be defined more clearly as we go through the process.”

Olson was released without bail and ordered to stay away from his home, his wife and children. He will return to court Dec. 12. The maximum penalty for each of the two misdemeanor charges is 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

This incident is not Olson’s first offense. Eight years ago, he was charged with throwing a typewriter at his secretary and attended anger management classes.

...actually that was the first of two reported incidents of Olson abusing staff. Legislative aides complained about Mark Olson's abusive behavior in 1997 (see yesterday's posts).

Olson has said it is not his intent to resign his position at the legislature. Only a felony charge would result in his being automatically removed from office.

...that's the standard now for Mark Olson?... a felony? This is what he ran on a few years ago:

However Speaker of the House Steve Sviggum has said he will ask for Olson’s resignation if he is found guilty of the charges.

... Sviggum has known about and enabled Olson's violent behavior for many years. He should be demanding Olson's resignation now.

Olson could also be subject to recall by voters under state law. If an ethics complaint is filed against Olson and found to be warranted, the House has broad powers to discipline him further.

...will the Republican leadership continue to allow Mark Olson's mugshot to be the face of their party?

Citizen Newspaper Readers respond to Olson's arrest. A citizen of Big Lake writes this letter to the editor:

To The Editor,

Spousal abuse is a terrible crime. In the case of Rep. Olson, his victim is twice hurt, once by him and again by having this issue brought into the public light.

I pray that God gives her the courage to understand that the shame this crime has caused is entirely his and is no reflection on her. It takes incredible courage to report this crime and is a credit to her that she has the integrity and strength to put a stop to this abuse.

I pray that her friends and family and this community come to her support and praise her for her actions that protected her and her children. I hope that her actions will encourage others who suffer from this terrible crime to come forth and report abuse.

I hope that this high profile case will be used as a message to those who abuse that this type of behavior has serious consequences and that Rep. Olson is made an example of. We need to be able to say that spousal abuse means that you will go to jail. He has lost his credibility and can no longer represent this district.

Jill Anderson

Big Lake, MN

Another citizen of Big Lake writes:

To The Editor,

I am disappointed by the actions of Rep. Mark Olson. His statements to the press after his release from jail on Tuesday show that he is not ready to accept responsibility for his actions.

Mark knocked his wife to the ground three times and left bruises on his victim. Mark said that he “placed her on the ground”. Rep. Olson is a home builder and comes from a family that is hardly impoverished yet he made the taxpayers of Sherburne County pick up his bill for attorney’s fees by using a court appointed lawyer.

Rep. Olson said a guilty plea was “inappropriate”. Spousal abuse is a serious crime. It’s an act of terror and power that humiliates its victims and teaches the wrong lessons to children exposed to it.

Rep. Olson and other law makers need to understand this. I expect those that make the laws to plead guilty when they break them. Only a coward terrorizes his wife and children. It should be noted that Rep. Olson was one of the few members of the house that voted against increased funding for battered women’s shelters. His abuse of those who he perceives him self to have power over goes back to his first term when he assaulted his legislative assistant and was ordered by the speaker of the house to take anger management classes.

Rep. Olson attended only two classes. We are now represented by a man who will be forever known by his mug shot and arrest for wife beating. He is no longer a role model for children or an example of what a Representative should be.

Rachel Bye

Big Lake, MN

The Twin Cities media needs to do a better job of covering this story and not leave it up to local, right-wing newspaper. They need to demand that Mark Olson talk directly to the citizens who pay his salary, benefits and legal fees. He should no longer be allowed to hide behind the law. The major media also needs to ask why the Republican leadership continues to support Mark Olson.

Is Mary Kiffmeyer Planning to Run in 16b Special Election?

The rumor is former Secretary of State Mary Kiffmeyer is planning to run in a special election following the resignation of Rep. Mark Olson.

UPDATE: The next blog: Huhtala Vs. Kiffmeyer

Mark Olson: Articles and Brochure Clippings Reveal a Pattern of Abuse and Denial

Scroll down and read these newspaper articles and clippings from Mark Olson's campaign brochures.

1/20/97 Strib on Mark Olson's staff abuse:

"Legislator slapped for Staff Abuse"

Here's a copy of that article:

Mark Olson Survey Response: "Harmful to a child to not receive discipline..."

A strange statement from a guy who was a bachelor for most of his life:



Larger sized scan HERE.

Mark Olson 1996 Brochure Said He Supported "Holding Legislators Accountable for Unethical/Illegal Activities"

Mark Olson's 1996 brochure also asks for "Tougher Penalties for Crime".

Monticello Times: Steve Sviggum Makes Excuses for Mark Olson's Abuse

January 23, Monticello Times:

"Mark Olson is very much a perfectionist and has high expectations that some people don't live up to," Sviggum told the Times, "It's not an abusive situation, but he's had higher expectations than what others were able to provide."

Scan of complete article HERE.

"Olson Refutes Allegations of Abuse..."

January '97 Big Lake newspaper articlereveals Mark Olson's paranoid concerns about working with legislative aides:

Larger sized scan HERE.

Olson Supporter Blames Teenagers and Criticizes Homosexuals

A comment on the MN PUBLIUS blog:

Written by: Em
Posted on: November 15, 2006 at 10:09 pm

This comment is to Offred… I know Mark Olson personally. You are being judgemental and critical without knowing the facts of his marriage or situation. I do know the facts. Raising teenagers and in particular teenagers that are not your own is a very difficult job. You all make me very sick. You sound very hateful and vengeful and I am disgusted. I hope you will all have to eat your words someday. Don’t judge others when you don’t walk in their shoes. Isn’t that what you homosexuals are asking of others…You don’t want others passing judgement on you so why do you do it to others, you hypocrites.

Is this a preview of what Mark Olson's defense will be at his trial?

Why Pistol-Packing, Wife-Beating Rep. Mark Olson Must Resign Now

If Mark Olson had been arrested for smoking crack cocaine, it's safe to say that he'd have resigned by now. Instead Mark Olson's been arrested for domestic assault... for Steve Sviggum and Republicans that's not enough to ask Olson to resign. Sviggum requires a conviction.

Why is an arrest for beating a woman a wait-and-see offence as opposed to being arrested for smoking crack?

In Minneapolis, the Star Tribune and the Minnesota Daily called for a school board member to resign because he authored a satirical website. The Minneapolis Star Tribune has not asked for Olson to resign.

Why the double standard?

It's racism, sexism... and politics.

It's clear that Sviggum and the Republicans are stalling for time so they can find a candidate to run in a special election that is almost a certainty. and that is disgusting. What kind of message does that send?

From the Truth Surfer blog:

October was National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. What's that you say, you missed it? So did most of us because for the most part, the media chose to ignore the issue. That makes the media coverage of Minnesota's Rep. Mark Olson arrest this week for domestic abuse even more ironic.

Mark Olson, a Big Lake-area legislator recently reelected to his eighth term, was charged with fifth-degree domestic assault for hitting his wife (forcing her to the floor). Instead of using it as an opportunity to educate the public on the epidemic level of abuse in America (and Minnesota), the media has instead made it into just a problem for Olson his political party.

But it’s a lot more than just another story. Not when domestic violence accounts for over 25% of the crimes reported in Minnesota yet we know that 80% of all domestic abuse goes unreported. The story of Mark Olson is played out everyday over and over again in Minnesota’s homes.

Given Olson’s past aggression against a women and his refusal of treatment, his current punishment should be the maximum that can be given by both the court system and his legislative peers.

A while ago someone told me that Rep Mark Olson wore a concealed handgun on the floor of the legislature. I asked somebody in Sherburne County and he said that it was true that Olson used to carry a gun on the floor but a new law was passed that stopped him from doing it last year.

It is important to know whether the arrest report done by the Blaine Police Department mentioned whether Mark Olson was carrying a handgun when he was arrested in the church. If so, then this would be a much more serious crime; having a hand gun while commiting a violent crime.

Olson apparently has a permit and is known for always having it with him.

My sources say that Mark Olson was having a "nervous breakdown" and was rambling and quoting the bible and "making no sense" after his arrest.

Contact Governor Pawlenty and Steve Sviggum and tell them that Mark Olson must resign now.

A Letter From Sherburne County

I received this e-mail today:

Hi.

I have been asked by many of you for my thoughts in regards to Rep. Olson’s arrest. The State DFL party has chosen (correctly) to stay out of this. This is a matter between Rep. Olson and those he represents; and, of course, the Republican caucus and Rep. Olson.

The matter is if we will accept an abuser having our voice in the State House. I would hope that our elected officials hold themselves to the same standard that they hold the rest of us to. His actions and words after the fact are clear indications that he does not. There are laws on the books which exclude persons convicted of domestic violence from working as police officers, nurses, social workers, school bus drivers and other positions of public trust. State Representatives are expected to be role models for our community and of course our children.

This is not the first time Olson has used violence over those whom he perceives to have power over. During his first term in office he abused his aid and was ordered by House Speaker Sviggum to attend anger management courses. He attended only two. He has been openly hostile to constituents who bring him concerns that differ from his own view of the world.

Domestic violence is a very serious crime. It is the type of behavior that is often passed from generation to generation. For too many years this crime has been taken lightly by police, lawmakers and society in general. This is not an issue between husband and wife but rather an issue between those who think violence is an acceptable form of expression and those of use who don’t. For 40 years women’s groups have been fighting to end the cycle of violence against women. To allow an elected official to get away with it would be unforgivable.

Rep. Olson’s refusal to enter a plea and downplay the actions he inflicted on his wife (“I placed her on the ground”) show that he is in denial and does not take this issue with the seriousness it deserves. Rep Olson has been one of the few members of the house to vote against funding for battered women’s shelters.

I think we all need to commend Mark’s wife Heidi for her remarkable courage in reporting this crime. Heidi must have known that this would put her and her family in the public spotlight. Yet she stood up for herself and her children by saying “No more”. Time and time again I am amazed at the strength that women like Heidi Olson and others in her position show. Indeed I hope she is used as an example to others who may be suffering in silence. They can break the cycle of abuse, and we all need to recognize and praise her efforts. To beat your wife is the act of a coward. To report it is the act of a hero.

I ask all of you to consider voicing your opinions on this matter. I ask you to do so publicly. Rep. Sviggum, Olson, Erickson and others need to hear your voice. Our newspapers the Elk River Star, The Sherburne County Citizen, The West Sherburne Tribune, The Princeton Union Eagle, The St. Cloud Times, The Minneapolis Star and Tribune and Pioneer Press.

I am also asking you to do something positive.

“Rivers of Hope” Is a shelter that helps victims of abuse.

I would like everyone who reads this to send a donation to this fine non profit group.

Last year over 1700 people applied for help at this shelter. They also send counselors to schools to help children who may be at risk.

The address to send your donation is:

PO box 511
Monticello, MN
55326

Thank you,

Tom Beckfeld

You can learn more about Rivers of Hope at the Rivers of Hope web site.

12 Days Ago Steve Sviggum Called Mark Olson "The Conscience of the Legislature"

From The Sherburne County Citizen:

Sunday, November 05, 2006

To The Editor,

I often refer to your state representative, Mark Olson, as the "conscience of the Legislature." Mark is one of the most principled and thoughtful persons I know - certainly one of the most principled legislators I've ever had the opportunity to work with.

Mark makes a positive difference for governing at the State Capitol. He is a person who gets results and that you can work with, but you better have your facts and information correct and supported. For instance, Mark led the repeal of the Profile of Learning before it was the popular thing to do. In the middle 1990's he stood almost alone gathering support every year until in 2003 the repeal passed the Legislature almost unanimously.

Yes, the State Legislature needs a whole lot more people like Mark Olson. At times his standards and expectations are difficult to meet, but Mark's makes me, the Legislature, and the State of Minnesota so much better.

Steve Sviggum

Speaker of the House

St. Paul, MN

Minnesota DFL Responds to Mark Olson's Arrest

From MN Publius:

To: Interested Parties
From: Jess McIntosh, Communications Director, Minnesota DFL
Re: Rep. Olson
Date: 11/14/06

I’ve received a number of queries asking for our response on the arrest of Republican Rep. Mark Olson.

I’m answering with this instead:

The campaign is over. If it doesn’t move the democratic (small d) agenda forward, we aren’t going to deal with it. The DFL Party gained power with an overwhelming victory last Tuesday. But as Congressman-elect Tim Walz says, “This is not a Democratic mandate. It’s an American mandate.”

We won because we focused on the bread-and-butter issues that matter to Minnesota. No matter what kitchen appliances the opposition ripped up and flung at us, we stuck to the issues. We ran the kind of campaign that paved the way for governing. It was a campaign of inclusiveness and civility. It was everything the Republican Party abandoned when they decided political power was the most important force in government.

So Ron Carey can call on Brian to apologize for the behavior of DFL Rep. Dittrich’s husband, who allegedly removed GOP lawn signs at a homeowner’s request, and the media can pick up that quote and run with it [matt’s note: turns out Dittrich’s husband did nothing wrong, for the record]. And the very next week, when we have the chance to paint Ron Carey and all Republicans with the same flawed brush that was used to create Rep. Olson, we will pass. It is not weakness or passivity.

It was wrong when Carey did it. Just because he set a bad precedent, it doesn’t make it right that Brian follows.

Ron Carey does not need to apologize for Rep. Olson’s behavior. That’s between Rep. Olson, his wife, and God. It is not reflective of the Republican Party and not relevant to the political discourse.

We won last week because this country is sick to death of the depths to which our failed leaders have sunk us. We won because we made America remember how good – how hopeful – things can be. We can have – and, in fact, deserve – effective, responsible, accountable government that works in our best interests tirelessly, with courage and integrity.

The campaign is over. We won. Now it’s time to show everyone what we were fighting for.

Jess McIntosh
Communications Director
Minnesota DFL Party

Then it’s up to the citizens of Minnesota .

Please call and write newspapers and elected officials and ask that Rep. Mark Olson be removed from the Minnesota legislature.

Sviggum Says Olson Should Resign if he's Found Guilty

Saint Cloud Times:

Minnesota House Speaker Steve Sviggum said he will recommend Mark Olson resign his seat in the House if he is found guilty of assaulting his wife.

Olson, a Big Lake Republican who was elected to an eighth term Nov. 7, was charged Tuesday with domestic assault after an incident involving his wife, Heidi, on Sunday.

Sviggum, who will end his eight-year tenure as speaker in December, in a statement, called the allegations against Olson very serious and will be treated as such.

“If Rep. Mark Olson is found guilty of these... charges, I will personally recommend he resign from the Minnesota House of Representatives.”

Sviggum also said the House sits in judgment of its own members and has an ethics committee process for dealing with matters of this importance.

Saint Cloud Times readers comment:

Deminn from Minnesota
Posted: Nov. 15, at 8:17 AM

"after spending two nights in jail. He did not offer a plea and was released without bail."
Is this the standard treatment anyone could be expecting for a similar offense?

============

MASTER OF rePUPPETlicanS from Wherever I May Roam
Posted: Nov. 15, at 8:36 AM

Even if Olson's seat were to turn DFL (which it won't) I can understand why Steve Sviggum wouldn't be too excited about going to bat for Olson.
12 years ago when Olson chucked a typewriter at his secretary's head, Mr. Sviggum offered to go to anger management with Olson... but Olson refused to go.
Mark Olson needs professional help... and his wife needs a divorce before he screws up her kids.
JMHO

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mom to several from stearns county
Posted: Nov. 15, at 8:51 AM

Mark Olson should be given a leave of absence and be put in treatment for anger management to see if he can be helped. This should be part of his sentence. We should be there to help this person abandon him. We are all you compassionate left wingers? Isn't this somthing you live for? We should feel bad for everyone and try to help all. No one should be left behind....right?

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MASTER OF rePUPPETlicanS from Wherever I May Roam
Posted: Nov. 15, at 9:08 AM

W(h)e(re) are all you compassionate left wingers?
Advising Mrs. Olson to get a divorce before he (Mark Olson) screws up the 5 kids she had with her late husband.
... and advising Mr. Olson to get professional help.
Abusers rarely change... as is evident by Mr. Olson's "history".

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auntiGustaGene from St. Cloud
Posted: Nov. 15, at 9:27 AM

I believe i read yesterday that if a defendent does not offer a plea the judge is obligated to list his plea as "not guilty." So, in essence, Olson pled, not guilty, despite his rhetoric.
Olson was elected to office. HE has abandoned the standard we ALL should live by. He should take his personal inadequacies to a personal place and get out of the public's policy writing and the public pocketbook.
This isn't about party line - It's about a man who has demonstrated abusive/control tendencies in the past and likely will again.
Good advice: IF you have an abusive partner, NEVER give another chance. IF s/he claims the ability to change, let him prove it with some other poor sap. You won't be missing anything except waiting for the other shoe to drop......'cause it most likely will.......and you're the one who will bruise and bleed.

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peepers from cheeseland
Posted: Nov. 15, at 9:35 AM

If you listen very carefully you can hear the “Family Value" hypocrisy alarm going off, someplace other than Washington. What a shock!

============
Rush from Spin City
Posted: Nov. 15, at 10:37 AM

Unbelievable, GOP family values, they just gave senate leadership back to Mr. family values--Trent Lott. Truelly unbeleivable. Wake Up!

I urge readers to get in touch with their legislators and let them know whether you think Rep. Mark Olson should be asked to resign.

The Complaint Against Rep. Mark Olson

The Pioneer Press summarizes the complaint:

According to a criminal complaint, sheriff's deputies arrived at Olson's home at 20945 County Road 43 in Big Lake Township on Sunday and spoke with his wife, Heidi Olson. She said she and her husband had gotten in an argument and that he had pushed her to the ground three times.

An examination of Heidi Olson revealed a "fresh bruise," the complaint added.

Mark Olson was picked up several hours later at the private Calvin Christian School in Blaine. When questioned Monday by authorities, Mark Olson "admitted to grabbing his wife by the shoulders and placing her to the ground," the complaint stated.

The article adds the following:

Court officials said Olson was ordered to have no contact with his wife; he was allowed to return to his home, accompanied by authorities, to pick up his belongings.

Olson walked out of jail, a Bible in hand, and told several broadcast outlets he would seek forgiveness from a variety of parties.

"I first of all need God's forgiveness, and I need my wife's forgiveness, and my family's … and then I need the public's," he said.

According to his campaign Web site, Olson has been a "carpenter and log home builder" for 25 years. Since 1999, the site adds, Olson has sat on the Monticello-Big Lake Hospital Ethics committee.

Mark Olson is slated to be arraigned Dec. 12 in Sherburne County District Court. The charges against him each carry a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

You can view copies of the complaint here:

1st Page

2nd Page.

3rd Page.

Audio of Mark Olson Begging for Forgiveness

After his court appearance after being charged with an assault on his wife, Mark Olson begs for forgiveness... Star Tribune audio here.

From the comments:

Ken, you might want to let your readers know that Mark Olson is listed in the Minnesota Young Republicans' Hall of Fame.

Mark Olson Cried in Court

From the A.P. and KARE 11 News:

A tearful state Rep. Mark Olson on Tuesday made his first court appearance after his arrest for alleged domestic abuse, and was released without bail on the condition that he stay away from his wife and her five children.

Through his court-appointed attorney, the Republican from Big Lake said he would not enter a plea in the case. He said a guilty plea would be inappropriate and a not guilty plea would suggest he was "avoiding responsibility."

The judge allowed Olson to return to his house once to retrieve his personal belongings. Olson told reporters Tuesday that he had no intention of resigning from the Legislature.

The criminal complaint filed in the case said Olson's wife, Heidi, told sheriff's deputies that Olson pushed her to the ground three times during an argument Sunday at their home in Big Lake. Deputies noted that she had a "fresh bruise."

After Olson was arrested Sunday night, he told deputies on Monday that he grabbed his wife by the shoulders "placing her on the ground," according to the criminal complaint.

Olson, who was handcuffed and wearing jail orange, told reporters Tuesday "I first of all need God's forgiveness. And I need my wife's forgiveness and my family's. And then I need the public's forgiveness."

The article concludes by saying Mark Olson's next court date was set for Dec. 12.