Apparently the mods are the only 3 people who voted that the design doesn't need to be changed? (I voted "no" by accident because I initially messed up the wording of the answers). I assume it's because they're purists. From a perspective of someone on the outside looking in, the sign is uninspiring and dated. period.
AND this is urgent because once Ron announces, you can be sure as hell the official campaign will begin having his signs prepared shortly thereafter.
In regard to Ron's sign having built "brand equity", did it matter that obama had no "brand equity" before 08? No. He had a great design, and it paid off.
Imagine Ron's '08 sign saying "Barack Obama" instead of Ron Paul. Would Barack have fared so well if that was the case? Compare that to the stylized "O", modern font, and vibrant colors that Barack did have. Even McCain had a sharp looking design.
I'm not some nobody speaking on this topic. I've been doing corporate branding professionally for years.