Editor’s Note: Olsen has authorized the Sabine County Reporter to announce his candidacy for Justice of the Peace of Precinct 1. As a participant in the newspaper’s Political Calendar, following is a statement issued by Olsen.

On August 29, 2025, Michael Olsen filed the necessary paperwork to start his campaign to run for the office of Justice of the Peace, Precinct one. Today he makes his official announcement with the Sabine County Reporter.

The Justice of the Peace has many responsibilities: Magistration of Adults and Juveniles in relation to criminal charges, Traffic Citations, Small Claims, and Inquests, to name a few. We need a candidate who is hardworking, experienced and fair.

Michael has dedicated his life to serving and protecting our State and our County. He has over 35 years of leadership experience in the Criminal Justice System. For the last 11 years, Michael has worked at the Sabine County Sheriffs Office side-by-side with Judge Roger Gay, Judge Henry Alvarez, Judge Michelle Morgan, and Judge Jim Strickland, gaining valuable knowledge and experience of the importance in the role of a judge as Magistrate for criminal defendants. Over the years, Michael has worked with the County Attorney’s Office and the District Attorney’s Office to get cases resolved, escort inmates to County Court and District Court to ensure our Courts run smoothly. This experience has given Michael the knowledge he needs to know how to properly run a Court. During his service with the Sabine County Sheriff’s Office, Michael has responded to many unattended deaths and suspicious deaths, working alongside Judge Gay and Judge Alvarez on Inquests. This gives Michael the experience a Justice of the Peace needs to perform this difficult duty. As a former self-employed contractor, Michael became familiar with the laws and procedures for Small Claims Court. Fortunately, with every customer satisfied, he never had to put that knowledge into practice as a party to a case. However, this knowledge gives Michael the information he needs to be a fair and impartial Judge on the civil cases that are filed in the Justice Court. With a passion for public service and a strong desire to make a positive impact on our County, Michael is committed to ensuring equal justice for all.

“I’m running for office because I believe we need a Judge with experience and integrity. As your next justice court judge, I promise to protect your rights, your family and to treat you with dignity, fairness and respect. Having lived in Sabine County for many years, I have met many wonderful people who care about keeping Sabine County a safe place to live and believe that judges should be fair and impartial. I am looking forward to meeting more of the people who live in Precinct 1 and answering questions and hearing your ideas about changes that you feel would make our County better. So, if you see me out and about, please say ‘hello’ and visit with me awhile.”

Supporters can follow Michael on Facebook at OlsenforJP1.