A wannabe lawmaker running on platforms of anti-crime and aiding small businesses has been accused of shoplifting - by a hardware store owner who has footage of the alleged theft.

A candidate for Seattle's Federal Way City Council, Denise Yun is seen pulling hammers from a shelf at Trinity Ace Hardware on Pacific Highway South in the footage, which was filmed July 18.

In the clip, Yun - a relatively unproven political newcomer who has pleaded guilty to stealing twice in the past - is seen knocking over store signage as she puts the hammers on top of her purse.