A political controversy is brewing in Montgomery County, New York, as a local company faces legal action for erecting a massive 100-foot “Vote For Trump” sign visible from the busy New York State Thruway. The company behind the sign, Sticker Mule, is run by a CEO who is a staunch supporter of former President Donald Trump. Despite warnings from local city officials in Amsterdam, New York, the sign was unveiled last week, drawing attention and sparking legal challenges.
City officials are concerned that the towering sign, positioned in a high-traffic area about 35 miles northwest of Albany, could become a traffic hazard. Drivers along the New York State Thruway have been reportedly slowing down to take pictures of the sign, raising concerns about potential accidents. The City of Amsterdam has cited the company for violating municipal codes, claiming the sign is an illegal structure that poses public safety risks.
In response to the violation, a restraining order has been issued, requiring Sticker Mule to cover the sign. The company complied, and the sign has been temporarily concealed pending a court hearing scheduled for October 8th. During this hearing, local officials will argue their case for the sign’s removal, while Sticker Mule’s legal team is expected to defend the company’s right to free expression.
Sticker Mule’s CEO, who has not shied away from his political views, has used the sign as a bold statement in support of Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential bid. Despite the controversy, the CEO remains defiant, stating that he believes in the importance of political expression and that the sign is meant to encourage civic engagement.
The case has garnered significant media attention, with both Trump supporters and opponents weighing in on the issue. The debate centers not only on the legalities of erecting such a large sign but also on broader issues of free speech and the extent to which political messaging can be displayed in public spaces.
City officials in Amsterdam argue that their main concern is public safety, as the location of the sign poses potential dangers for drivers distracted by its size and prominence. “This is not about politics; it’s about ensuring the safety of our residents and those traveling through our city,” one city official explained.
The outcome of the October 8th hearing could set a precedent for how municipalities across the country handle similar cases of large-scale political signage. Meanwhile, local residents and passersby remain curious about the future of the controversial sign, and the debate over free expression versus public safety continues to intensify.
