Concern Grows Over Campaign Sign Theft in Johnson City
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. — Residents woke up to unsettling news on Thursday morning as reports surfaced regarding the theft of campaign signs in the Southside neighborhood. Campaign signs promoting Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz were particularly singled out, with many disappearing overnight while signs for local, regional, and statewide candidates remained untouched.
A Neighborhood on Alert
Nathan Brand took a stroll through his West Pine Street yard, feeling proud about his four campaign signs proudly planted in his raised bed. However, he was surprised to find that by morning only three remained. “It makes you wonder who would do such a thing,” he said shaking his head.
President of the Southside Neighborhood Organization (SNO), Margie Kendall, began receiving texts and calls from concerned neighbors stretching from University Parkway to Buffalo Street, indicating that not only did Brand lose his sign, but many others had reports of missing signs as well. “Almost all, I think they missed a few streets here and there,” Kendall shared.
Taking Action
In response to the theft, Kendall quickly gathered information from residents about what had happened. Meanwhile, local supporters at the Democratic Resource Center began collecting replacement signs for those who lost theirs. “I’ve heard that some people want to put even more signs… to kind of emphasize that, you know, it’s going to be a whole lot more work if you’re going to want to take them again,” she said, highlighting the spirit of resilience among residents.
One resident, Jake Plunkett, took it a step further after noticing his own Harris-Walz sign had vanished. Posting on social media, Plunkett vowed to adopt the “hydra approach,” stating, “For every sign stolen, plus one goes up in its place.” His plan serves as a lighthearted but spirited way to reinforce the community’s beliefs. “More visibility towards what they’re trying to put out of sight,” he added.
A Call for Respect
Even voices from the opposite end of the political spectrum chimed in to denounce the thefts. Dr. Turney Williams, the Washington County Republican Party chair, acknowledged the wrongdoing, stating, “It’s the wrong thing to do. It doesn’t matter which side you’re on.” He even shared stories of GOP signs, particularly those supporting Trump, disappearing near early voting sites.
As the conversation expanded, both Kendall and Williams voiced their concerns that these types of incidents seem to be on the rise. “Over the last 6 to 8 years, politically…. I’ve never seen anything in the numbers of what we’re seeing now,” Williams observed.
Community Spirit Remains Strong
Washington County Election Administrator Dana Jones confirmed hearing various reports of missing signs, especially since early voting began on October 16. Along with stolen signs, there have also been complaints about unauthorized signs being placed in the area, often with crude messages about candidates.
Despite the turbulence this election cycle, Kendall remained optimistic about her community. “We’re a very warm, welcoming community, and it doesn’t really matter what your beliefs are,” she reflected. She urged fellow citizens to respect one another and treat each other’s property with kindness.
Focusing on What Matters
Looking ahead, both Kendall and Williams expressed a desire for a return to normalcy after the election, emphasizing the importance of unity, respect, and community support. “I really hope that after this election cycle, we can all just get back to being unified as a nation, respecting one another, caring for our neighbors no matter what they believe,” Kendall concluded.
The incident sheds light on the emotional nature of political campaigning, but it also reminds us of the need for compassion and understanding, no matter our political differences. Let’s hope this season brings more unity than division and encourages respectful dialogue around the dinner table and beyond.
