LETTER: Respect and Integrity in Franklin’s Elections

To the Editor:

Once again, VOTE NO signs have been stolen from Oak Street and East Central off RT140. This is not about whether a police report was filed—it is about basic respect. Dismissing an incident simply because it was not officially reported is an ignorant stance.

Political sign theft happens in every election, but that does not make it acceptable. This behavior erodes trust, deepens divisions, and undermines the democratic process. Franklin deserves better.

No matter our stance, we should be able to express our opinions without fear of petty retaliation. These signs—YES or NO—belong to the residents who purchased them and had the courage to share their stance publicly. Stealing NO signs will not convince anyone to vote YES, just as stealing YES signs will not change minds toward NO. If anything, it strengthens the resolve of those who feel silenced.

If Franklin is truly broken, this kind of behavior is part of the reason why. The fix starts with something simple: decency. Respect others. Respect their property. Respect the democratic process.

Bottom line: Let us act like adults. Respect should be the foundation of our community.

--Jane Callaway-Tripp