Political polarization is peaking online and in our communities across the state, with just weeks to go before the 2024 General Election. The division is clear on social media – take a look at the comment section of any political post, if you dare. Polarization is clear.

What is also clear is the increased reports of campaign yard sign theft and vandalism.

Yard signs supporting former President Donald Trump, Vice President Kamala Harris, as well as the signs of other state candidates for Rosie Lynch and Scott Fetgetter for State House, are all being targeted by those with opposing viewpoints.

While some might view taking down or defacing yard signs as an act of civil discourse or political activism, the law is clear on the issue: Theft or vandalism of political signs is a crime in all 50 states. Trespassing on private property is also a punishable offense in every state. There is also the cost of the signs themselves.

States take slightly different approaches to how they penalize theft and vandalism of political yard signs, and given the value of most political signage, the theft of a candidate sign would fall under petty larceny, which is a misdemeanor crime that could entail up to a $500 fine or jail time.

If the sign is not removed, but only damaged or defaced, the perpetrator could be looking at a misdemeanor vandalism crime, also punishable by fine or possible jail time.

There are no ordinances specific to candidate signage in Okmulgee County, according to research on county and municipal websites. However, that means at the point the signs are put out, they are considered private property and fall under the same laws as other signage.

Additionally, if political signs are put in a state or highway right-of-way, or they block the view of oncoming traffic, the Department of Transportation can remove or move any signs without consent.

Rosie Lynch, Chair of the Okmulgee County Democratic Party, and Marsheila Prior, Chair of the Okmulgee County Republican Party, wish to reinforce an important reminder during this election period. “We do not support anyone stealing or removing political signs,” and both chairs agree when it comes to vandalizing or removing political signs, “Just don’t.”