Albert Olszewski in The Missoulian

On Foreign Policy: Ban use of Shariah law and other foreign laws in courts

Gov. Bullock vetoed a bill that would have banned Sharia and other foreign laws from being used in Montana courts. Bullock said he was disturbed that the ban could have been seen as an "endorsement for anti-Muslim sentiments and activity."

"It cannot be seriously denied that the bill is drawn from 'Sharia law bans' that have been tried in other states. The intent of these bills is to target a particular religion and group of people for disfavored treatment," Bullock said, adding that the proposal could add to the "nationwide surge in hate crimes."

"I don't see how affirming our Constitution does that. I disagree with him," said Sen. Keith Regier (R-Kalispell). He and other backers argued that the measure aimed merely to declare support for U.S. and Montana law. They rejected contentions that the bill was anti-Islamic or xenophobic.

Legislative Outcome: Passed House 3/21, 56-43-1; passed Senate 2/3, 27-21-1; Sen. Olszewski voted YES; vetoed by Governor Bullock, 4/6/2017

Source: The Missoulian on Montana voting record SB.97 Feb 3, 2017

On Immigration: State immigration enforcement is not discrimination

The plaintiff's attorney said the people of Montana have no business creating enforcement schemes, and that the law is "discriminatory" against "immigrants." We soundly reject this and declare that it is wrong to place the interests of people who enter our country and state illegally over the rights and interests of lawful taxpayers, citizens, voters and working families. Source: The Missoulian on 2018 Montana Senatorial race Jun 2, 2016

The above quotations are from Media coverage of MT political races in The Missoulian. Click here for other excerpts from Media coverage of MT political races in The Missoulian. Click here for other excerpts by Albert Olszewski. Click here for a profile of Albert Olszewski.
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