Press Release | Democrats, Republicans Condemn Political Sign Theft and Vandalism

With the November 3 election fast approaching and passions running high, Pima County is seeing an epidemic of political-sign theft and damage. This is not just an unacceptable assault on free speech and a threat to the democratic process, it is illegal in Arizona under ARS: 16-1019. 

Defacing or removing election materials, including signs, flyers and mailers, is a class 2 misdemeanor that carries a maximum punishment of four months in jail, a $750 fine plus surcharges, and two years of probation.

The Pima County Democratic and Republican Parties jointly condemn political vandalism. Both parties have received an unusually high number of reports about signs stolen from or damaged on private and public property. 

“We call on all Pima County residents to respect the law – and everyone’s Constitutional right to express an opinion. Should we become aware of anyone who is vandalizing or stealing signs, we will report it to the proper authorities for follow-up action,” said Pima GOP Chairman David Eppihimer and Pima Democrats Chair Alison Jones, in a joint statement.

“We understand that people have strong feelings about this election. Rather than breaking the law to steal signs, we suggest channeling your energy into campaigning for your favorite candidate or cause.” 

Contacts:
Alison Jones
Chair
Pima County Democratic Party
520.326.3716
alison@pimadems.org

David Eppihimer
Chairman
Pima County Republican Party
520.661.4058
chairman@pimagop.org