Wisconsin Republican Party Headquarters Vandalized

Headquarters in Altoona hit with red spray paint and eggs, police investigating

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

The headquarters for the Republican Party of Eau Claire County in Wisconsin was vandalized with red spray paint and eggs overnight on Friday. The building was found with the words "Pedophile Protectors" spray-painted on the windows, and the group's chairman condemned the "despicable act of political vandalism." The local Republican party is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

Why it matters

This incident is the latest in a string of attacks on Republican party offices across the country in recent years, raising concerns about political violence and the growing partisan divide. The vandalism also highlights the tense political climate in Wisconsin, a key swing state.

The details

According to reports, the vandalism occurred at the Republican Party of Eau Claire County headquarters in Altoona, Wisconsin. The building's owner discovered the graffiti and egg yolks on the windows and walkway early Saturday morning. The group's chairman, Fred Kappus, said the vandalism included the phrase "Pedophile Protectors" spray-painted on the windows, which he believes is a reference to "Trump Derangement Syndrome." Kappus condemned the "despicable act of political vandalism" and said the party is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

  • The vandalism occurred overnight on Friday, February 14, 2026.

The players

Republican Party of Eau Claire County

The local Republican party organization in Eau Claire County, Wisconsin.

Fred Kappus

The chairman of the Republican Party of Eau Claire County.

UWEC College Republicans

The College Republican group at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, which condemned the vandalism.

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What they’re saying

“We feel this is just a wanton act of vandalism done against the Republican Party by somebody on the left. Apparently, based upon the slogan that was painted on our windows, they must suffer from 'Trump Derangement Syndrome,'”

— Fred Kappus, Chairman, Republican Party of Eau Claire County (WEAU)

“This morning, the Republican Party of Eau Claire County headquarters was found vandalized. This kind of behavior is unacceptable and has no place in our community. UW–Eau Claire College Republicans stand in full support of the RPECC, which we proudly consider our partners.”

— UWEC College Republicans (WEAU)

What’s next

The Altoona police department is investigating the incident and the Republican Party of Eau Claire County is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.

The takeaway

This act of vandalism against the local Republican party headquarters is the latest in a troubling trend of political violence and property damage targeting party offices across the country. It underscores the deep partisan divisions and tensions in Wisconsin, a crucial swing state, and the need for political leaders to condemn such acts and work towards restoring civility in the political discourse.