Press Release — September 28, 2026

Neighborhood cameras captured an individual removing and destroying political signs

Silencing Voices in Utah Politics

Sandy, UT- River Oaks Drive in Sandy, Utah saw the destruction and illegal removal of political signs in support of Drew Howells and Jonny Larsen.

In the late hours of September 26, 2026, neighborhood cameras captured an individual removing and destroying political signs for both Jonny Larsen and Drew Howells throughout the entire community.

When asked about the damage, Larsen shook his head.

“As veterans, Drew and I fought and served to protect the right of Americans to be heard.” He continued, “We must be doing something right if a sign has the power to make someone this angry.”

Howells commented, “You do not have to agree with someone’s politics to respect their right to participate in our democracy.” Larsen added, “We [Americans] can agree better. There is a lot we agree on, and that is where we need to start.”

The campaigns for both Larsen and Howells condemn the damage done and see this behavior as a positive sign that their efforts are having an impact. Larsen, who is open about his military service, is on the record saying that “Community and taking care of each other matters. Making sure that Utah voters are heard and respected matters.”

Drew served over a decade before being medically retired, and has spent the last 15-years advocating for, and serving the veteran community.

“The symbolism of two veterans having their signs targeted is hard to ignore.” Howells said.

Political signs are protected under Utah Code 20A-17-102. Any removal, defacing, or destruction of political signs is a Class B Misdemeanor, subject to consequences under the law. Anyone with information about the suspect is urged to contact the Sandy City Police department.

Larsen, a Democrat, is running for the Congressional Seat in District 4; District 4 covers parts of Salt Lake and Utah counties, and all of Juab, Millard, Sanpete and Sevier counties.

Howells, a Democrat, is running for Utah House District 39, representing the areas of West Jordan, Sandy, and Murray.

To see video and photos of the damage done visit this FaceBook post for more: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19aTJrYb3W/

Howells For Utah

Drew Howells

howells4utah.com

Jonny Larsen is a United States Marine combat veteran running for Congress in Utah’s 4th District.