Anyone who destroys political signs in Michigan may risk jail

It's politics season once again, and despite the never-ending barrage of political discussions across social media platforms, people are loyal to the person they want to see elected to office. Many people show their unwavering support by purchasing campaign signs to make their name more widely known to other voters.

But times are tense and sometimes people react irrationally when they see their political opponent's name on a piece of cardboard. If you find yourself in that situation and think that defaced or ripped down someone else's political poster is the best solution… then don't do it. Because in Michigan, it's illegal and can even lead to a jail sentence.

Usually, a few months before an election, election posters are put up in communities for citizens to show their support. But recently, tempers have been running high, with videos even appearing on social media of people destroying or defaced political posters.

The very thought of someone even promoting the name of the person you are voting against is so abhorrent that you have to do something about it. So you rip it out of the ground, throw it away, or maybe even smear it with a felt-tip pen.

This is illegal in Michigan.

Stealing or damaging political signs is a misdemeanor in this state, punishable by a fine of up to $500 or even 90 days in jail.

Most communities do not allow signs on utility poles, traffic signs or trees. They are usually restricted to the front yards of private properties. Community leaders also suggest placing political signs outside of the right-of-way on streets, that is, on the side of the sidewalk farthest from the street.

The problem is that this makes these characters an easy target for haters.

The closer we get to the November election, the more likely you are to see A LOT more of these posters, so be aware that there are rules to follow and that even AFTER the election, all political posters must be removed within 10 days.

So go ahead and put up your “Trump 2024” and “Harris Walz” signs now and make sure they don't get harassed by any Narbewells. But remember, come November 15th, you better put them away or you'll face another fine.

Politics in Michigan: 1839–1960s