Republicans in North Carolina are facing worrying signs in the governor’s race amid a torrent of negative headlines surrounding their candidate, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson.
Most polls in recent months have shown Democrat Josh Stein, the state’s attorney general, leading Robinson, an ally of former President Trump who has drawn criticism for his past rhetoric on everything from abortion to the civil rights movement.
Some Republicans fear Robinson’s controversial persona could cost them the governor’s mansion — and the challenge will be even tougher for him as Vice President Harris has seemingly made inroads in the state as well.
“That is the dominant feature of the race,” Republican strategist Douglas Heye said, referring to the controversies surrounding past comments Robinson has made.
Robinson first rose to prominence in 2018 when he spoke in defense of gun rights at a Greensboro City Council meeting, which helped launch his successful run for lieutenant governor in 2020. He narrowly won the election to become the first Black lieutenant governor of the state, even as incumbent Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper won reelection by a slightly larger margin.
Throughout his political career, Robinson has rallied those on the right as a strong Trump ally and firebrand on conservative principles. But his principles and rhetoric have at times caused friction.
Robinson has made a wide range of controversial comments dating back to before his time in office. He has made derogatory statements about Jews, Muslims, transgender people and Black people who support Democrats. He has described Muslims as “invaders,” referred to homosexuality and “transgenderism” as “filth” and criticized feminism as being “watered by the devil.”
He has referred to abortion as “murder” and “genocide” and said the issue is about not being “responsible enough to keep your skirt down,” comments with which Stein’s campaign has gone on offense against Robinson.
North Carolina governor race: Mark Robinson’s controversies fuel GOP concerns (thehill.com)