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Rep. Olson apologizes

Published (2/22/2008)
By Nick Busse
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Rep. Mark Olson asks members of the House: "Will you forgive me for bringing dishonor and disrepute to you as my colleagues, and to this institution?" Olson was convicted last summer on a domestic assault charge. (Photo by Tom Olmscheid)In an emotional apology on the House floor Feb. 18, Rep. Mark Olson (IR-Big Lake) implored his colleagues to forgive him for actions that he said brought “dishonor and disrepute” to the House.

“Madame speaker, members and staff: you are all aware of my personal failure in November of 2006,” Olson began, referring to a highly publicized incident in which he was accused of pushing his wife to the ground. He was ultimately convicted of one count of misdemeanor domestic assault and acquitted of another.

Olson said he accepted “full responsibility” for his actions, and noted that “all the responsibilities placed upon me by the court have been fulfilled and completed.”

“Will you forgive me for bringing dishonor and disrepute to you as my colleagues, and to this institution?” Olson asked.

Olson was suspended and then ultimately expelled from the House Republican caucus in the months following his arrest. His remarks were greeted with a brief round of applause from his colleagues in the House Chamber.

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