Missing signs draw response

MAT-SU — If you thought the Valley had made it through an election season without the perennial controversy over stolen campaign signs, think again.

“What are they doing with my signs? Come on guys, I still have a general election to run. Don’t line your chicken coops or reroof your houses until after November 6th!” reads a bemused Facebook from Lynn Gattis posted Friday morning.

But as the day wore on it became clear the problem was serious. Campaign manager Erick Cordero said replacing the missing signs could wind up costing thousands of dollars.

“Funds to pay for these signs has come directly from individual donors and neighbors in our community,” Gattis says in a press release regarding the thefts. “It is a shame that some individuals and groups will disrespect our democratic process this way. However, we will not be deterred by these acts and will continue to get the message out to voters.”

Gattis isn’t the only one missing campaign signs. Mike Dunleavy is in the same boat, judging by his Facebook page:

“Folks, thank you for everything. I need a little help. Many, many of our 4’x8’ (sic) signs have been taken off of their stands,” it reads. “The signs are literally disappearing every hour. Please, if you know of any supporters, or non-supporters who are taking the signs, please let me know. We want to hang onto the signs for the November election. After that, we can give them away. We would like them back. Please let me know if you have information. Thanks.”

Dunleavy does not have a challenger to face in November. Gattis does in Democrat Blake Merrifield.

Both Dunleavy and Gattis noted that signs were removed from their wooden stands. The Gattis campaign pointed out that whoever took the signs spent time pulling out all the screws that secured them to the frames.

The Gattis campaign said they’ve checked with volunteers and with the state Department of Transportation, whose right of way clearing efforts have often been the culprit in past sign stealing controversies, and found no evidence of anything but a theft. So the campaign has filed a report with Alaska State Troopers.

“The campaign is asking neighbors and supporters to report any information on the thefts or to take pictures with their cellphones if they see any individuals removing the signs,” according to the press release.

Contact reporter Andrew Wellner at andrew.wellner@frontiersman.com or 352-2270.