Anti-Obama Billboards The Talk Of Hanson
HANSON (CBS) – Free speech or offensive?
Those are two viewpoints regarding three political billboards in Hanson that are getting the attention of everyone who drives by Sullivans Inc., a motorcycle accessories distributor off Route 27.
WBZ NewsRadio 1030's Karen Twomey reports
Podcast
One shows a little girl raising her middle finger next to the message:
"Thanks Obama. You've spent my lunch money, my allowance, my inheritance, 35 years of future paychecks and my retirement. You Jerk. Vote Mitt Romney For 2012!"
The finger is now covered in packing tape.
Some people say the sign makes them uncomfortable.
"It's being offensive," one man told WBZ NewsRadio 1030 Thursday. "I think you can send out the message without being this drastic."
Others say it's free speech.
"I think it's a good idea, whether it's on private property or not," a supporter told WBZ.
Another billboard has a smiling photo of President Obama, with the communist hammer and sickle symbols on his shirt collar, next to the message:
"Somewhere in Kenya a village is missing its idiot. Obama – One Big A** Mistake America. Vote Mitt Romney For 2012!"
The owner of the property and the signs was contacted by WBZ-TV and WBZ NewsRadio 1030 Thursday, but declined to comment.
In addition to the political debate, there is also debate about where the billboards are legal.
According to town officials, owner Robert Sullivan did not get a necessary permit from the building commissioner to put them up.
Sullivan's attorney, however, said they are protected under the First Amendment.
What do you think of the billboards?
Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
