As election day approaches, the political battleground has evolved and changed a lot. Campaign signs destruction and vandalism are the most recent controversy in Fort Bend County, as reported by The Fort Bend Star.
More and more people have posted videos and photos on social media showing how the signs in their houses were either destroyed, painted or vandalized. This is the case for signs supporting Democrats and Republicans all the same, that is why candidates and politicians from both political parties have spoken against this attitude. Some Republicans, nevertheless, have blamed the rising crime rates while Democrats have blamed the recent political polarization.
The situation has escalated so much in the county that District Attorney Brian Middleton has already warned residents against vandalizing political campaign signs, reminding them they could be charged with a crime. “It is unfortunate that these crimes have occurred and they must stop. Destruction of political campaign signs is not likely to affect the outcome of the election; however, the lack of civility and disrespect involved in these crimes is a degradation of our community values.”
The Fort Bend Star reported an example of how bad the situation has become; George, for instance, told the Star he’d personally lost between 20 to 25 signs because of vandalism and theft. The signs cost him about $106 apiece, he said. That would be about $2,332 for 22 signs.