[9] He drew bipartisan criticism from making a deal with Torch Electronics, a company in an ongoing legal battle with the state and represented by Steven Tilley, to advertise the unclaimed property program on their machines.

[10] Malek has pushed legislators to expand the capacity of the MOBUCK$ low interest loan program, which closed 2023 applications early due to high demand.

Since Malek’s appointment in January 2023, the treasurer’s office has processed $651.2 million in linked deposits, benefiting 147 borrowers, including 97 small businesses and 39 agri-businesses.

Citing instances where DEI requirements influenced hiring decisions, he has criticized the use of inclusion and equity statements that favored political activism over academic and teaching excellence.

Applauding the University of Missouri System's decision to eliminate diversity statements in hiring, Malek believes that that taxpayer-funded institutions should prioritize academic excellence and intellectual inclusivity over divisive ideologies.

Malek has criticized the strain illegal immigration places on state and local governments, particularly in handling issues like the fentanyl crisis and increased criminal activity.

He considered Biden's removal of Title 42 limits and the surge in illegal border crossings an insult to legal immigrants who adhere to the law and a threat to the integrity of the American Dream.

Malek advocates for reversing these policies, emphasizing the need to protect taxpayer resources, uphold public safety, and preserve the value of legal immigration.