Political Quotes

On the recordFebruary 5, 2026
I was disturbed by Mr. Olson's refusal to condemn the hateful, inflammatory rhetoric used by one of the plaintiffs in his cases. I asked him about his client's statement claiming that a transgender woman wearing women's clothing is 'akin to blackface.' I also asked him about his client's statement that the trans rights movement is 'an attempt to normalize pedophilia.' And I asked him about his client's statement regarding the University of Pennsylvania, which included a slur I will not repeat. In each instance, Mr. Olson stated that he lacked the 'full context' for this language. I am unaware of any context that could possibly make such rhetoric acceptable. He refused to condemn this language and would not even go so far as to say that these hateful statements include language he personally would not use. Further, he expressed no concern or regret upon being informed that his client's rhetoric has led to death threats against high school students.
Said by
Dick Durbin
Democratic · Illinois

Editor's note · Context

Discussing concerns over Justin Olson's nomination to the U.S. District Court regarding his handling of trans rights cases.

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