Constitution guarantees our freedom of speech

The First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States guarantees our right to freedom of speech, including the freedom of political expression.

Apparently, that is not the case in Sandpoint. Three times in as many months, individuals have trespassed on my private property and defaced, vandalized and finally, stolen my Obama political signs. The most recent incident required the thief to use metal cutters to steal my signs. I realize that my political views do not run consistent with the typical Republican views of Idaho; however, I adamantly defend my right to express my opinion, in full public view, on my private property.

To the person responsible: If you stole my sign because you couldn't afford to buy one yourself, and want to display it - fly it proudly.  If you stole it because you do not agree with my political views - shame on you.  If you think the Republican Party can do any better job than they have after the past eight years of chaos, you're delusional. You'll be crying in your beer when President Barack Obama takes office in January.

To the good citizens of Bonner County: If you have any information regarding the theft from my property, please contact the Sandpoint City Police at 265-1482.

STEVE TILLBERG

Sandpoint