Idaho Gubernatorial Candidate’s Signs Vandalized

Idaho's primary election season appears to be heating up with some vandalism.  The May primary is only weeks away and it is not uncommon to see campaign yard signs taken down or stolen.  However, an act of vandalism has happened and a police report has been filed.

Republican Gubernatorial candidate Ed Humphreys has recently lost his mother.  Mr. Humphreys, while grieving over his mother's death, had several of his campaign signs slashed near his home according to a release from the campaign.  Mr. Humphreys's face was slashed and his signs were the only ones that were vandalized.

The campaign did reveal that a police report was filed with the Ada County Sheriff's Office.  The incident is under investigation.  Mr. Humphreys addressed the vandalism against his signs.  “I will not be bullied into silence and I intend to continue with my campaign for Governor of Idaho.”

Mr. Humphreys is running in one of the most-watched primary races in the country.  He is challenging Republican Incumbent Governor Brad Little who is running for reelection to his second term.  Idaho's Lieutenant Governor Janice McGeachin is also running for governor against Governor Little along with Bonner County Commissioner Steve Bradshaw.

This incident is the first one that we've become aware of during this primary season.  We have seen this type of vandalism in the past, but not to this extent.  The Humphreys campaign issued the following in their release:

"People who revere freedom hold the election process sacred. Displaying campaign signs and banners is a vital part of a free election and a form of free speech. There is no place for this kind of hate in Idaho. "