A Democratic Party chair in North Carolina resigned after his arrest for allegedly stealing roadside signs supporting Donald Trump.
Lowell Simon, the former chair of the Moore County Democratic Party, faces two counts of misdemeanor larceny. He is also a candidate for the North Carolina House this November.
The Moore County Democratic Party confirmed Simon’s resignation in a Facebook post. They stated it was “following recent allegations and arrest related to the theft of political signs.”
According to the Moore County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy spotted Simon removing campaign signs along Seven Lakes Drive around 5:25 p.m. Thursday.
The deputy was responding to an unrelated call but later checked Simon’s home. The stolen signs were found in his vehicle. “Simon admitted to removing the signs, which were then recovered and returned to their original owner,” the sheriff’s office noted.
A warrant for Simon’s arrest was issued on Saturday. He was released on a promise to appear in court, with his first appearance set for October 30.
The Moore County Democratic Party stated, “While we appreciate the hard work and dedication he has shown… we cannot and will not condone the tampering of political signs or any other illegal activity.” Simon offered an apology and resigned, both of which were accepted by the party.
After his arrest, Simon expressed his frustration. He said, “My worse angels got the better of me and I removed the signs.” He added, “I shouldn’t have done that. I didn’t do it in the stealth of night or anything. I did it when it was five o’clock in the afternoon.”
The local party emphasized their commitment to free expression and fair enforcement of laws. They hope for unbiased protection of campaign signs across party lines. “Together, we are committed to promoting the values of justice, fairness, and freedom,” they stated.
Moore County Sheriff Ronnie Fields, a Republican, reminded the public about the law protecting the placement of campaign signs. “The removal or theft of campaign signs is a violation of North Carolina General Statute § 136-32(e),” he warned.