by By Davidson Local Staff

Reports of missing and damaged campaign signs are surfacing in the City of Lexington as the municipal election approaches. Several candidates running for municipal races say their signs have been stolen, torn, or repeatedly knocked over — and many believe the actions are intentional.

First-time candidate Dylan Tucker who is running against Ward 3 incumbent Matt Welborn, said the issue is taking a toll on his campaign and on supporters who’ve contributed their limited resources to help. Welborn noticed some of his signs have been moved and noted that Tucker’s were also missing and had concerns. Welborn said, “By no shape or form would I condone somebody taking anyone’s signs. It doesn’t give anyone a chance to be fairly elected. I hate that it has been happening. It’s a financial investment to buy these signs.”

“It’s not just me they are hurting,” Tucker said. “A lot of elderly people have donated and they are living on fixed income. I’m trying to do the best by them.”

Other candidates echoed his frustration, describing signs that were found tossed in ditches or snapped off their stakes shortly after being placed.

However, candidates outside of Lexington’s city limits say they have not noticed the same level of destruction or theft. The pattern appears to be localized within the city at this time.

Lexington Police Chief Robby Rummage confirmed that, at this time, there has been only one documented report of political sign theft within the city.

“A couple of key points to keep in mind involve the laws governing political sign placement and the potential consequences for theft or damage,” Lexington Police Chief Rummage said.

He shared references to state law and sentencing guidelines:

North Carolina General Statute 136-32 regulates political sign placement and notes that violations may be charged as a Class 3 misdemeanor.
The Structured Sentencing Chart outlines potential penalties for misdemeanor offenses in North Carolina.

“If you are placing political signs, please make sure that they are installed in accordance with state regulations,” Rummage added. “Signs on private property require the owner’s permission. Once a political sign is lawfully placed, others should respect it as someone’s property and leave it in place.”

For candidates like Tucker, the loss goes beyond materials or money — it’s about respect for community expression and fair play in the election process.

“People may think it’s just a sign,” Tucker said, “but those signs represent support, sacrifice, and community voices trying to be heard.”

Early voting in Lexington continues through Saturday, November 1, and Election Day is Tuesday, November 4th.

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Candidates Report Campaign Signs Damaged or Stolen Across Lexington

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