Every two years around this time signs start popping up that fall is near – I’m not talking about falling leaves, but political signs.
Here is the thing though, I’ve noticed in recent years the vibe has changed around these signs. While they definitely help candidates get their name out there – important for new or larger elections there were way too many stories of neighbors squaring off or feeling isolated or attacked if they put these out. How many stories did we see during the last presidential election where Trump supporters and Harris supporters have had lasting damage done to their relationships and their neighborhood just for publicly supporting their candidate of choice. I have heard first hand stories of neighbors shutting out neighbors because they posted a sign for a few weeks, because they felt they had to post the sign, not even because they believed in the message.
More concerning was what I have seen in the recent past here in Springdale where some (now former) elected would take notes on who posted who’s sign – and even keep photos of signs up!
I started doing this work with City Council now almost 8 years ago and I have always worked to not add division to our neighborhood. I welcome questions and different points of view… I show up and I show my work.
I also love that some people are willing to show their support so visibly. This is not an indictment of anyone who feels this is something they want to do. In this specific race both my opponent and myself both have spent most of our lives here, raised families here and want the best for Springdale.
We do have differences on the best way to do the job – you can see the work I have been doing here on this website where I have 8 years worth of updates… and more on Facebook where I am always available to answer questions and get feedback from all of you.
So, I am taking the unusual step this election to not post political yard signs. I am asking that anyone that who wants to support my work continuing instead of posting a sign – just share this website www.jeff4springdale.com – with a quick text or call with a friend or neighbor that should hear about the work I have been doing (and if they have concerns encourage them to reach out! No need to wait for the next election, we can help now).
I would rather hear a story that someone made a new connection with a neighbor than the chance someone driving by see my name and that turns into a vote.
