With the political season in full swing, we’re likely to see political signs start popping up in fields and yards like fall mushrooms.

They’re already spreading fast on this Island of educated, engaged and politically aware souls. And so they should.

Thus, it’s time for a reminder: Let’s respect this fine and cherished tradition. Let’s not deface those signs we don’t like.

Such vandalism is remarkably childish. It’s akin to shouting down your opponent at a community meeting — a stifling of speech that is rude, immature and counter-productive. It shows no respect for civic discourse, the touchstone of a democracy.

And on Vashon — one of the bluest corners of a blue state — it’s particularly troubling when the defacement is that of a McCain sign, as happened last week on the north end of the Island. It’s likely not easy to be a Republican here. To deface a Republican sign thus seems particularly hostile.

Were this paper to endorse a presidential ticket, we would, without question, back Barack Obama and Joe Biden. With hope, excitement and passion. But even with our deep conviction that Obama should become the next president of the United States, we fully support our neighbors’ right to express contrary opinions. Indeed, we welcome it.

This was just one act of political hostility, not a far-reaching effort to stifle speech. Let’s hope it stays that way. Let’s make sure our Island’s much-touted belief in tolerance extends to those who hold and embrace conservative views.