RCMP are investigating a disturbing case of election sign vandalism in the northwest.
Vandals cut an image of Bulkley Valley-Stikine BC NDP candidate Nathan Cullen out of one of his campaign signs and hung it, with a noose around Cullen’s neck, on a makeshift gallows on the side of a highway in the riding.
It was discovered by one of Cullen’s campaign workers. Cullen has issued the following statement:
“I was recently made aware of an election sign that was vandalized in a violent and disturbing way. Our team has reported the incident to the RCMP and Elections BC. As it has now appeared on social media platforms, I feel the need to address this very unfortunate development directly and forcefully.
“All the time of learning about this most recent damage to another of our election signs, I was out going door-to-door in my community with a group of dedicated volunteers. It’s on the doorsteps of our towns and villages that we have respectful and engaging conversations about the election regardless of political affiliation.
“The act of vandalism is violent in its nature and meant to intimidate me and people supporting our campaign. It won’t work. And we will call out such acts each and every time.
“Our free and fair elections are a privilege and a responsibility for all of us as candidates, supporters, and general voters. We must protect this conversation from those who seek to bully or suppress anyone’s right to vote.
“I encourage everyone to get out to the polls, cast a ballet for the candidate and party of your choice and, in doing so, renew our commitment to a democratic process free of violence and threat.”