Hate Symbols Found Near Taft Early Voting Site in Orange County, Then Removed, Officials Say
Swastikas painted on trees outside the Taft Community Center were removed, the Orange County Supervisor of Elections said, and the site stays open as early voting runs through Sunday, November 1.
Several hate symbols were found painted on trees near an Orange County early voting site, according to the Supervisor of Elections Office. The swastikas were found outside the Taft Community Center on South Orange Avenue, FOX 35 Orlando reported.
In a news release, Supervisor of Elections Karen Castor Dentel said her office worked with Orange County government and other officials to have the symbols removed. "These symbols represent a history of hatred, antisemitism, and violence," Castor Dentel said. "Their presence in our community is deeply disturbing and unacceptable." She added that no one should have to encounter symbols of hate and wonder whether they are welcome or safe in the place where they live, work or vote.
The Orange County Sheriff's Office is investigating, and it was not clear when the symbols were found, the report said. Officials said the Taft Community Center will remain open for early voting, which continues in Orange County through November 1 at 27 locations open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day. Election Day is November 3, with polls open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
