Letter: Former mayor supports Molepske for judge

To the Editor-

I’m proud to write this letter of endorsement for District Attorney Louis Molepske for Portage County Circuit Court Judge Branch II on April 5.

My wife Shana and I have known Louis personally and professionally for more than 25 years and find his integrity, objectivity, and intelligence to be second to none. Louis’ compassion and his ability to weigh extremely controversial and detailed issues, will allow for a comforting sense of rational deliberation, bringing balanced and common-sense decisions to flow from the bench. Something that is so desperately needed today.

Service to those who cannot serve themselves has been a hallmark of Louis’ dedication, for the complete and total extent of his professional career. Most recently, over the last 10 years as district attorney, fighting with all of his ability for victims of crimes; not for those who commit them, indeed, standing up for those wronged, not those who would intentionally harm.

Additionally, being a legislator is something that is truly remarkable. It is a process that allows a chance for citizens, to be able to participate in making the law and writing law; which is a core principle of participatory government.

As a legislator, writing the law allows for a human perspective and a true understanding of the reasons and the rationale for a law’s purpose. This perspective is extraordinarily valuable for a judge when being called upon to make objective decisions on the rule of those very laws. This unique perspective allows for a total balance of the issues presented. Being a “politician” who has written law is not a negative, it is in fact one of the greatest differences that separate Louis Molepske from his competition.

I know Louis’ competition. I appointed him to the Community Development Authority for the City of Stevens Point. He is a good man. However, the differences between these two candidates could not be clearer.

A key example: According to public records, Louis has 232 active cases in Portage County, directly managing some of the most controversial and difficult cases himself. In Portage County, his opponent has only three active cases. I know what it takes to balance the time commitments and management needs of a public office. Louis has what it takes.

For the entirety of his career, Louis has championed major changes for justice and for victims, for veterans, and for those who are cursed with chemical dependence; it’s time for him to continue his dedicated service, objectively weighing cases for our collective good.

Please join me in supporting Louis Molepske for Portage County Judge.

Andrew J. Halverson
Stevens Point