Here We Go Again; Yard Sign Wars in Local Politics

SAN ANGELO, TX – The 2020 primary elections are getting close and it's no surprise that the disappearance or vandalism of yard signs has become an issue.  It happens every election.  

Tom Green County Republican Party Chair Jeff Betty has been inundated with calls from campaign operatives that those yard signs are again becoming an issue.  

Betty issued the following statement Wednesday:

"As often happens during the campaign season, a number of complaints have been lodged. While I take seriously every complaint, it is important to remember a few things. First, while often it might seem that a campaign or supporters of a candidate are 'stealing signs' or placing signs intentionally where they should not be, often these perceived issues are actually innocent actions. Sometimes property owners change their mind about who they wish to support or perhaps two or more of the folks who own a piece of property disagree and the compromise is to remove a sign which was previously allowed. Sometimes the wind or young people remove a sign or a supporter places a sign without the knowledge of the candidate.

"Please grant the candidates the benefit of the doubt and contact their campaign directly if you have a concern. If the candidate is not responsive by all means call us and we will try to help, but please understand that I have no authority as Chair to require candidates or their supporters to do or not do anything. I appreciate your consideration.

"Second, all four candidates are good and kind men, valuable members of our community and have been nothing but kind and decorous to each other and to the citizens. I assure you that if there have been actions that you deem inappropriate or improper it is not at the direction of the candidates themselves. I am very proud that the Republican Party is offering for the public's consideration such fine men during this election. We will be well served regardless of the outcome of the election. It is my great hope that during this time of striving that all who involve themselves will conduct themselves in a manner that does credit to the candidates they support and to the Republican Party of this County and State."

Jeff Betty, Chair of the Tom Green County Republican Party