OWOSSO, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Political signs have stirred up more than business at the Downtown Owosso Farmers Market, where Democratic state House candidate Stephen Schlaack is accused of calling police on Republicans distributing campaign signs near the market.
Schlaack, who manages the market, is challenging incumbent Republican state Rep. Brian BeGole in Michigan’s 71st House District.
Political Signs, Police and a 911 Call
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According to a Facebook post by Shiawassee County Political Exposure, Schlaack allegedly confronted Republican supporters on Saturday, October 10, including a military veteran, over political signs.
In a 911 recording reportedly obtained through a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request, Schlaack tells dispatchers, “We’ve got some individuals down here giving out political yard signs and there are rules that are against that that have been approved by the city.” He goes on to say they are harassing the market staff and that someone is shouting at him.
Two Sides to the Story
In a separate Facebook post, Eric Rogers alleges Schlaack confronted his father-in-law for carrying a political sign while returning to his vehicle.
Schlaack disputed the accusation, saying nobody was asked to leave. He maintained that police were contacted because individuals were raising their voices, drawing a crowd and creating safety concerns.
Public Streets, Private Rules?
City records confirm Schlaack obtained approval for downtown street closures for the market, which operates Saturdays through October 31. The market’s vendor rules prohibit political activity and displays. But vendor restrictions don’t necessarily apply to members of the public.
Additionally, under the First Amendment, public streets and sidewalks generally remain protected areas for peaceful political expression, subject to lawful restrictions.
A Market Double Standard?
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Schlaack’s pushback raises questions about whether both parties get the same welcome. In August, he promoted an “ask me anything” event inside the market with William Lawrence, the Democrat challenging Republican U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett.
Questions Without Answers from Schlaack But “Market” Responds
Michigan News Source emailed Schlaack questions about his authority, the police call, First Amendment concerns and allegations of unequal treatment. He did not respond to our request for comment.
However, there was a statement signed by “Owosso Farmers Market Management” on Facebook the same day where the market defended its decision to contact police and denied attempting to prevent Republicans from distributing political signs. They defended their handling of the confrontation, insisting the dispute was about market rules and safety, not politics, stating that Shiawassee County Republican Party advertised a political sign distribution event at the market without obtaining permission or coordinating with organizers.
According to the statement, Schlaack only asked that political signs not be carried through the “active” market area, and Republicans were never told to stop distributing signs or leave their location outside the market barricade. Management claimed the confrontation escalated when Republican representatives became defensive and raised their voices, prompting a call to police. The statement also maintained that the market applies its restrictions on political activity equally to both parties, including previously turning down requests from Democratic organizations.
The statement is notable because Schlaack is himself the market manager, although it remains unclear whether he personally authored the statement.
The controversy raises questions about how Schlaack’s actions at the market square with the message he’s promoting on the campaign trail. Schlaack’s campaign website emphasizes fairness and listening to differing viewpoints. Some critics now naturally question whether that philosophy extends to Republicans.
