“I’m running for Mayor of Edison, not playing childish games with people’s lives,” Tingle said.

Edison, NJ — Independent mayoral candidate David Tingle is condemning what he calls “childish games with people’s lives” as frustration grows among Edison residents over aggressive campaign sign tactics.

In recent weeks, multiple residents have reported finding signs suddenly installed on their lawns or storefronts without their consent. Others say they have faced persistent pressure to allow campaign signs, sometimes from individuals tied to local political power structures. Several have expressed fear that speaking up might invite retaliation.

The anger has spilled into the open. A video circulating on local social media this week shows an Edison resident tearing down a campaign sign from their property in frustration, saying they never authorized it to be there. The moment captured the growing resentment among property owners who feel disrespected and cornered during this election season.

The issue is not one-sided. Members of the Tingle campaign say their own signs have been repeatedly vandalized or stolen, which they see as evidence of an increasingly aggressive and costly campaign climate in Edison.

“We have found our own signs ripped up and destroyed,” said Gloria Dittman, Town Council candidate. “We do not have a million bucks to blow on replacing signs every week. We would rather spend our time talking to residents than fighting these childish games.”

Rather than responding with a sign war, the Tingle campaign is focusing on direct outreach and listening. The team has launched a Local Business Yatra, a community listening tour kicking off this week on Oak Tree Road, the heart of Edison’s South Asian business district. A yatra is a journey with purpose, and this one is designed to meet property owners and business leaders face to face, hear their concerns, and build relationships rooted in mutual respect.

“Residents need to feel a sense of personal security. We need to be sure that we treat them with the respect they deserve,” said Samiksha Sharmas, Town Council candidate. “This is not about signs. It is about trust.”

Town Council candidates Elizabeth Conway, Gloria Dittman, and Samiksha Sharmas are emphasizing respectful engagement, community listening, and rebuilding trust with residents. They describe the intimidation tactics as a growing problem that must be addressed openly and honestly.

Vote-By-Mail Ballots Now Out

Vote-by-Mail ballots have begun arriving in Edison mailboxes. The People’s Choice Team is encouraging residents to fill them out early and make their voices heard. Voters can vote Column E for Edison by supporting David Tingle for Mayor, and Column B for Best by supporting Elizabeth Conway, Gloria Dittman, and Samiksha Sharmas for Town Council.

The team’s message is simple: Vote E for Edison and B for Best, because the People’s Choice is Edison’s Best.

About the People’s Choice Team

The People’s Choice Team represents a coalition of Independents, Democrats, and Republicans who believe local leadership should put people before party. David Tingle is running for Mayor of Edison alongside Town Council candidates Elizabeth Conway, Gloria Dittman, and Samiksha Sharmas. Together, they are committed to honest leadership, safer neighborhoods, stronger public services, and a more inclusive local government.

The campaign believes that real change starts by listening first. Through neighborhood walks, business tours, and community conversations, the team is meeting residents face to face to understand their concerns and work together toward practical solutions.

Contact:
People’s Choice Team for Edison
📧 dave@tingleformayor.com
🌐 www.tingleformayor.com