MATLACHA, Fla. -- A home-made Donald Trump campaign sign was defaced outside a popular art gallery in Matlache, Friday, being only the latest targeted by vandals in Southwest Florida.
Ever since Leoma Lovegrove put her colorful Trump decor on display, curious crowds have poured in, checking out her selection of Trump art and merchandise. "The gallery is just buzzing, people are coming into the gallery, taking picture of Mr. Trump," said Lovegrove, fixing her life-size Donald Trump mannequin. "It's my first amendment. I'm going to speak it loud and clear and this is a very passionate, important election."
However, some are not sharing her enthusiasm. On Friday, a vandal sliced and ex through the front and back of her home-made campaign sign, which was made of sturdy cardboard-like material. Lovegrove has had her signs stolen, but never vandalized. "When I try to cut it, it's very difficult, so it had to be a very sharp blade," said Lovegrove. "To be vandalized, that is scary. I'm a woman, that is scary."
People passing by the gallery were also disappointed by the act. "I think it's very sad that people can't be tolerant of people's preferences and ideas," said one woman.
Lovegrove attempted to fix the sign, but wasn't able to. However, she is going to leave it up because she believes it sends a stronger message. "I couldn't tape it, but it's still very legible and go figure! Trump is indestructible!" she said.
Lovegrove has surveillance cameras installed and police continue to look for the person responsible.
