Raleigh, NC classifies this as a Class 3 Misdemeanor.

https://raleighnc.gov/planning/services/political-sign-regulations

.

Fine for first time offenders looks to be $200.

https://www.ncleg.net/enactedlegislation/statutes/html/bysection/chapter_15a/gs_15a-1340.23.html

.

I vote for the owner to go for an arson charge. In this case easily provable, intent, etc. While this looks to fall into a misdemeanor category as well, there's this, from the below-linked article. (I don't know what the particulars are in NC as this is an overview.) -

"... Many states impose harsh penalties when a defendant uses an accelerant in the offense or targets a property based on the owner's beliefs, race, ethnicity, or other protected status. ..."

https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/crime-penalties/federal/Arson.htm

Raleigh, NC classifies this as a Class 3 Misdemeanor.

https://raleighnc.gov/planning/services/political-sign-regulations

.

Fine for first time offenders looks to be $200.

https://www.ncleg.net/enactedlegislation/statutes/html/bysection/chapter_15a/gs_15a-1340.23.html

.

I vote for the owner to go for an arson charge. In this case easily provable, intent, etc.

https://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/crime-penalties/federal/Arson.htm