Political Clash Erupts Over Controversial Signs in Texas’ 3rd Congressional District
Republican challenger Mark Newgent says criticism is part of public office and protected by the First Amendment
A series of yellow signs reading “MAGA Loves Pedos” have appeared in front of Republican campaign displays across Collin County, igniting a fierce legal and political dispute.
The signs, photographed in front of campaign materials for Congressman Keith Self, Frederick Frazier, and Keresa Richardson, have prompted accusations and debate over election law and free speech, according to TX3DNews.
Collin County Republican Party Chairman Byron Henry denounced the signs in an email to supporters, labeling them “cowardly acts” and “political sabotage.” Henry asserted the signs were intended to smear Republican candidates and mislead voters, urging supporters to report the displays for prompt removal. He suggested—without evidence—that Democratic opponents or their allies were responsible, and called for increased voter turnout during early voting and the upcoming March 3 primary.
State Representative Keresa Richardson echoed the claim of illegality in a social media post, indicating authorities would remove the signs. However, as of publication, no official confirmation of removal had been provided by law enforcement or municipal officials.
Democrats Argue Removal Would Violate Free Speech
Democratic leaders strongly rejected claims of illegality. John Stafford of the Plano Area Democrats denied involvement, while Collin County Democratic Party Chair Jeremy Sutka argued that any removal by law enforcement would violate the First Amendment. Sutka stated, “The First Amendment protects the right of every American to express their political views, even when those views are uncomfortable or offensive to those in power.” He emphasized that government officials cannot remove political speech simply because it is distasteful or targets their allies.
Sutka clarified that the Democratic Party does not condone vandalism or destruction of campaign signs, but maintained that removing lawful political expression would constitute suppression. He also linked the signs to broader national disputes and criticized Republican leaders, concluding, “Freedom of speech is not a convenience to be invoked only when it serves your side. It is a constitutional right that protects all of us”.
Candidates Call for Civility
Democratic candidate Evan Hunt distanced himself from the tactic, acknowledging voter frustration but advocating peaceful, patriotic engagement. Hunt emphasized that political change should come through constructive action, not escalation. Republican challenger Mark Newgent took a broader view, noting that criticism is part of public office and protected by the First Amendment.
Legal Questions Remain
The First Amendment broadly protects political speech, including offensive messages. Legal issues surrounding campaign signs typically involve placement rules and compliance with Texas Election Code § 255.001, which requires disclosure of who paid for political advertising. Violations are usually handled as civil matters by the Texas Ethics Commission. Authority to remove signs depends on whether they are placed in public right-of-way, violate local ordinances, or interfere with property. As of publication, no agency has confirmed the removal of the signs.
Unanswered Questions
No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the signs, and law enforcement has not confirmed any enforcement action. TX3DNews has requested comment from Byron Henry, Congressman Keith Self, and Sheriff Jim Skinner, but has not received a response at the time of writing.
Early voting for the March primary is underway.