State Worker Removes GOP Campaign Sign, Officials Citing Property Rules

A New York State Department of Transportation employee was recorded removing a lawn sign supporting Republican congressional candidate Mike LiPetri in Oyster Bay, sparking outrage from conservatives. However, state officials assert that the sign was removed because it was placed on state-owned property without authorization.

The incident, captured on video, shows the worker in a reflective vest taking the "Mike LiPetri for Congress" sign from the ground and placing it into a government truck. Images of the removal were shared on social media, leading to accusations that GOP campaign materials were being targeted.

Kevin Smith, founder of the conservative group The Loud Majority, questioned why state transportation workers were removing Republican lawn signs, posting the video on X. LiPetri also commented on the incident, stating that his supporters' signs were seemingly disappearing as quickly as they were erected.

While some initially suggested the sign was on private property, transportation officials confirmed it was located on state property along Jericho Turnpike. Stephen Canzoneri, a spokesperson for the State Department of Transportation, told The Post, "The State Department of Transportation is highly confident that the sign in the photograph was removed from our property — the department is authorized to remove signs placed on its right of way."

The DOT typically holds removed signs for 30 days, allowing owners to reclaim them. LiPetri, a former state assemblyman and a Republican candidate, is running against incumbent Democrat Tom Suozzi for a seat in the House of Representatives. The two previously competed in the 2024 election.

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives serve two-year terms and receive an annual salary of $175,000. Election Day is scheduled for November 3.