Controversial Trump Sign Resurfaces in Amsterdam Amid Legal Dispute

A pro-Trump sign, associated with StickerPAC, was unveiled on Elk Street in Amsterdam amidst much local attention on Monday, October 7, 2024. The sign has become a focal point within the community after it was temporarily ordered to be covered following allegations of a city code violation. This order was lifted on Monday, according to local police.

The sign, which prominently displays “VOTE FOR TRUMP,” was initially installed by Sticker Mule’s political action committee as a statement in support of former President Donald Trump’s presidential candidacy. Sticker Mule CEO Anthony Constantino expressed his enthusiasm at the event, comparing the sign’s potential iconic status to those in Las Vegas and Hollywood. “It’s great for the community,” he noted, underscoring his desire to maintain the sign beyond the election period.

This development follows a temporary restraining order from the city, lifted on Monday afternoon. According to Amsterdam police spokesperson Lieutenant Joseph Spencer, while the restraining order was vacated, discussions surrounding the city’s code compliance remain ongoing. “The city code part of it is still outstanding,” Spencer commented, alluding to ongoing legal proceedings.

Sticker Mule’s spokesperson, James Colistra, anticipated that legal documentation pertinent to lifting the order would be disclosed, further indicating some level of transparency in the proceedings. The legal efforts were notably led by Albany-based attorney Sal Ferlazzo, noted for securing the court’s decision from State Supreme Court Judge Rebecca Slezak.

The site holds historical significance as it once hosted the “FOWNES” sign, symbolizing a former manufacturing giant that relocated in 2010. Sticker Mule acquired the building in 2019, initiating a new chapter dedicated to promoting Trump’s economic policies, especially in attracting manufacturing jobs back to the United States.

Sticker Mule has become increasingly involved in local and national politics, exemplified by the foundation of StickerPAC last September. This initiative, dedicated to fundraising for Trump’s campaign, allocated approximately $150,000 to the sign project.

The event witnessed participation from a significant number of Trump supporters, including conservative figures like Broadalbin Councilman David Bardascini, who remarked, “If it said ‘Harris for President,’ they wouldn’t have a word to say,” emphasizing perceived bias within political discussions.

Other notable conservative politicians addressing the gathering included 20th Congressional District candidate Kevin Waltz and Joseph Mastroianni, who is contesting a state Assembly seat against Democrat Angelo Santabara. Mastroianni critiqued political intimidation and censorship, suggesting such dynamics are detrimental to the country’s fabric.

This lighting ceremony, attended by passionate supporters, is likely to further solidify the sign’s position as a contentious symbol within Amsterdam and perhaps beyond, as the political landscape continues to evolve ahead of the upcoming elections.