Political viewpoints

We feel especially privileged to live in a nation that has the freedom to choose our elected officials. Respect for that process and the way these men and women promote themselves as they seek political office is a part of the foundation of democracy, of the nation. One of those promotional avenues is the presence of election signs, either on private property or rented billboards. The tampering or outright theft of these pieces of property is an act of stealing. (Arkansas statute 5-36103. Theft of property)

Recently our yard sign supporting the Democratic candidates Joe Biden and Kamala Harris was stolen from our property. A report of this theft was filed with the Washington County sheriff’s department.

The sad news is that by taking our sign, some sophomoric person is disrespecting and trampling on the rights of all to express their political viewpoints. The thief makes a mockery of those that have actually given their lives for the right to vote, for freedom of expression, for the collective democratic good. Our system of government functions most powerfully when a variety of voices, opinions and talents are available to serve the greater good. Freedom of expression is a critical linchpin in that process.

The good news is that we have bought another sign from the Joe Biden Team and will place it in our yard when it arrives. So, in the end, by stealing our sign, the thief is supporting the Biden/Harris 2020 ticket through another donation/purchase. NANCY and BOB HARTNEY

Fayetteville