In Amsterdam, New York, a dispute has arisen between a local business owner and city officials over a large “Vote for Trump” sign. The city, located approximately 35 miles northwest of Albany, has issued a restraining order against Sticker Mule, a printing company, to prevent the sign from being lit up at night. The company’s CEO, Anthony Constantino, is a fervent supporter of former President Donald Trump and has established a political action committee in his honor.
The restraining order was issued by the Montgomery Supreme Court, forcing Constantino to cover the sign. A court hearing is set for Tuesday. City officials argue that the 100-foot-wide sign is a “dangerous distraction” that could potentially disrupt traffic or cause accidents as people stop to photograph it. According to the order, the city also claims that the sign violates a city code stipulating that business signs must be directly related to the business.
Sticker Mule operates out of a multi-story factory building, and the sign is a prominent feature of the city’s skyline. Amsterdam Mayor Michael Cinquanti expressed concerns about traffic safety due to people slowing down or pulling over to take pictures of the sign.
The city had warned Constantino in August about the potential code violation when his political action committee approached them about the sign. Despite the warning, Constantino proceeded to install the sign last week. He even planned an “official lighting ceremony” at the building for Monday night.
In a statement to local media, Constantino defended his decision, stating that the sign, designed by local artists, was intended to bring enthusiasm to Upstate New York and stimulate economic growth. He argued that the sign symbolizes the return of manufacturing to America and enhances the city’s skyline. He further claimed that the sign would serve as a tourist attraction, boosting economic activity in Amsterdam, regardless of political affiliation. He criticized those opposing the sign as being partisan and short-sighted.