Cape Coral mayor’s campaign signs vandalized amid primary race

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter’s campaign signs have been vandalized and stolen, with police investigating the incidents as the primary election approaches.

“You know, actually, we've had about 12 signs throughout the city. That has been vandalized and, you know, a portion of them stolen. So that's happened over the last week, actually,” Gunter said.

The vandalism has become a hot topic on the campaign trail as Gunter seeks re-election in this year’s primary. Some backlash from residents has led to his campaign signage being destroyed.

“I surely don't think that anyone should kind of, you know, go to this extreme. You know, if you don't agree with the candidate or you don't like it, can it just vote for someone else, not commit a crime?” Gunter said.

Some residents have taken to social media to support the destruction of Gunter’s campaign materials. Cape Coral resident Thomas Johnson said he believes the signs deserve to be taken down.

“Obviously, nobody likes him. You know, you didn't do a good job here. You're not doing a good job. You're throwing money away like it belongs to you. And you don't really care what people say,” Johnson said.

Others believe the political discourse is getting out of hand, both online and at public meetings.

“I would tell them to stop doing it, that's all. It's not right. That's money that they put out for these signs,” Cape Coral resident Clark Shimp said.

Gunter said the person responsible for the vandalism has been identified and admitted to the crime. Cape Coral police reportedly found campaign signage at the suspect’s residence, and Gunter said an arrest is forthcoming.

“It's simple. Use your voice on election day. That's when it matters. So go to the polls and vote for whoever you feel is the best candidate,” Gunter said.

Gunter faces multiple challengers in the upcoming primary election and hopes voters will use their voice at the polls rather than resorting to criminal acts.