Let's talk signs. A woman recently wrote that the language found on political signs was childish. The trouble with democracy is that it often is messy; everyone gets to stand up and state how they feel on any issue or candidate.

Some find political commentary offensive; I personally embrace what is in the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Each of us has the right to free speech and to express our opinions, some are more articulate than others. If you want to curtail free speech or ban certain points of view that don't mesh with your beliefs, maybe you don't really want to live in a republic.

This is how we hold our elected officials accountable, through open and free debate. Unfortunately, Fountain Hills has limited campaign signs along a large swath of our town, that is chilling expression. When I see campaign signs I see freedom, I see what my neighbors think, I get a better idea of who the person is who is asking for my vote.

As for civility, who gets to determine what is civil or not? In some country's that's called censorship. Pray we never have that.

Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at AzOpinions@iniusa.org.