Vandalism of signs has been reported as a big problem facing Republican candidates in the 1st Congressional District. But theft of signs seems to be even more widespread. Reports have been coming in from numerous Republican campaigns in Congressional District 1 about the theft of hundreds of campaign signs. From small yard signs to larger signs on roads and freeways, signs have been disappearing increasingly over the past two weeks.

In the 1st Legislative District, the sign manager for the Heidi Munson and Dennis Richter campaigns has reported that many of their signs disappeared or were destroyed overnight on Oct. 11. Elizabeth Scott from the 21st Legislative District estimates her loss at 300, mostly overnight. Other campaigns are relating the same experience. This lends credibility to the idea that an organized group is behind the theft and destruction of campaign signs targeted at Republican candidates. These activities are un-American, an assault on free speech and an affront to our election process.

Janis Richter, Bothell