Bramble sponsored legislation during the just-finished legislative session that would, among other more far-reaching things, prohibit using Redevelopment Agency funds for sport stadiums, a change that could hurt the chances for the state's new Major League Soccer team to build an arena in downtown Salt Lake City.

The perpetrators of the vandalism, according to Bramble, wrote in chalk on his driveway that "you have declared war," a theme similar to that of a letter left on Bramble's front porch - along with an oversized soccer ball. Another message alleged that "Bramble hates fans," the senator said Sunday.

The letter was signed RSL, the acronym for Real Salt Lake, the team's name, though Bramble says he doesn't believe the team was involved. But he said the messages and note were jarring.

"It didn't damage anything, other than cause some real anxiety with my wife and kids," Bramble said. "The fact is a debate of ideas is fine. But when people start writing messages on your driveway, your sidewalk, the street in front of your house and your wife and kids get concerned about it, that's out of bounds."

Team spokesman Trey Fitz-Gerald said, "The organization does not condone such tactics."

"We will continue to work with them [lawmakers] and other government officials to get a stadium," Fitz-Gerald said.

"I should take this opportunity to remind our fans that there's a right way and a wrong way to express your opinion," he added, noting this was not the right way to get what the team needs.

Bramble had cleaned up the chalk graffiti by late Sunday afternoon and did not take any pictures. He said he did not report the incident to police.

tburr@sltrib.com