Election season is a stressful time for everyone. Yet, amid all this chaos, it is easy to forget the importance of one simple tool: political signs.
Can Political Signs Impact Voter Turnout?
Yes. Most people might not think something as small as a political sign affects voter turnout, but it can make a large impact.
One study found households with campaign signs were more likely to vote than those without signs. Furthermore, the study found people who lived in areas with more campaign signs were more likely to vote than those who lived in areas with fewer signs.
In fact, campaign signs are often used in voter mobilization efforts because they are an effective and low-cost way to increase turnout.
Types of Political Signs and Common Uses
Posters are images and text printed on a large sheet of durable paper. The most common poster sizes include 11×17, 18×24, 24×36, and 27×40. They are typically used for indoor campaign offices and hung on windows and walls.
Yard signs are small signs stuck in the ground with metal stakes. They are typically made of weather-resistant materials like plastic and aluminum. They are commonly seen in yards and on properties of supporters. Yard signs are one of the most cost-efficient options, especially when purchased in bulk.
Flyers are small, lightweight pieces of paper which are distributed in a variety of ways. They are typically used for door-to-door campaigning and for handing out at events.
Banners are large signs made of mesh or vinyl. They are versatile enough for indoor and outdoor use. Banners are typically seen at rallies, in campaign offices, and in high-traffic areas.
Window graphics are typically made of vinyl, and as the name suggests, applied to windows. For campaigning, they are often installed on the windows at campaign headquarters and other campaign offices with storefront windows.
Vehicle wraps are large vinyl decals applied to the outside of cars, vans, buses, and other vehicles. Vehicle wraps can be used on campaign buses, or to transform a fleet of vehicles with custom graphics and deployed to blanket a large area with the candidate’s name, image, and message.
Where to Install Political Signs
The most important thing to remember when installing political signs is to obtain permission first. Many homeowners’ associations have rules pertaining to yard signs.
Another thing to remember is political signs should be placed in high-traffic areas. This will help guarantee the candidate's name and face are seen by as many people as possible.
Some of the best places to install political signs include:
On the property of supporters
In front of campaign offices
At rallies and events
Along busy roads and highways
At FASTSIGNS® of Mesa, AZ, we make all these signs and more. Call us today to learn how we can help.