Campaign Signs Defaced With Swastikas In Old Lyme

OLD LYME, CT — Swastikas were spray painted on campaign signsfor both Republicans and Democrats in Old Lyme over the weekend, WTNH News-8 reported.

The signs that were defaced were for Republican John Mesham and Democrat Martha Shoemaker. Both candidates are running for first selectman.

Mehsam told WTNH News-8 that he was "surprised by the hatred and vitriol that was expressed on this sign."

Old Lyme Democrats released the following statement on Instagram:

"It has come to our attention that last night, signs supporting both Democrat and Republican selectmen in town were defaced with spray painted vulgarities and hateful rhetoric. In addition to subverting the democratic process, vandalism is a crime, and we have reported both incidents to the police. The Old Lyme Democrats oppose any sign theft or vandalism. These signs cost money and are used to inform voters of candidates' names and remind them to participate on Election Day. They are perhaps the greatest example of our country's long tradition of free speech in action. Please stand with us in condemning this behavior and respecting BOTH political parties in town. We may disagree on policy issues, but we all agree that this is not what Old Lyme is about."

Earlier this month, a police investigation was launched in Waterford after swastikas were found on a playground.

See related: Swastikas Found Painted On Waterford Playground